What is Flush Free Niacin?
Flush-free niacin helps to reduce blood levels of triglycerides and "bad" cholesterol, such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and increases levels of good cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Niaspan can be used to reduce the risk of a stroke for people with high blood cholesterol who also have a history of heart attacks. Niaspan may be combined with another cholesterol medication to reduce the accumulation of fatty deposits within your arteries. This medication guide does not list all possible uses for flush-free niacin.
Side effects of Flush Free Niacin
In case of an allergic reaction, seek medical assistance immediately - symptoms could include difficulty breathing, hives or facial or throat swelling.
Flush-free niacin can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Heart attack symptoms include chest pain, pressure or pain that spreads to the jaw or shoulder area, nausea, and sweating.
- Low sugar; increased thirst; increased urination; dry mouth and fruity breath odor are symptoms of high sugar levels.
- Unexplained muscle tenderness, pain, or weakness
- Feelings of lightheadedness, as though one could faint.
- Heartbeats irregular;
- Severe warmth or redness beneath your skin
- Vision problems
- Jaundice
Side effects of flush-free niacin include:
- Flushing (sudden heat, redness, or tingly sensation);
- Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
- Abnormal liver function tests
- Itching, rash, and dry skin are all symptoms of dermatitis.
- Cough;
- Skin discoloration;
There may be other side effects.For medical advice about possible side effects, call your physician directly or reach out to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 - for reporting such events directly.
Similar/related drugs
atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin, lipitor, ezetimibe, fenofibrate, and Crestor
Warnings
If you suffer from severe liver diseases or an ulcer in the stomach as well as active bleeding, then Flush-Free Niacin is not for you.
Before you take this drug
If you are allergic or have any of the following:
- Severe liver disease
- A stomach ulcer;
- Active bleeding.
Tell your doctor about any of the following:
- Liver disease
- Kidney problems;
- Heart disease; chest pain (angina);
- Gout;
Flush-free niacin may harm a baby that is still unborn. It is possible that you will not be able to use Flush-Free Niacin while pregnant. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant. Breastfeeding is not recommended. Do not administer this medicine without consulting a doctor.
How to take Flush Free Niacin?
Read all instructions or guides that came with your medication, and follow all directions listed on its label. Flushing (warmth, itching under the skin, or feeling tingly) can be caused by Flush-Free Niacin. As you continue to take the medication, these effects will gradually disappear. If you drink alcohol or consume hot drinks shortly after taking Flush-Free Niacin, the flushing may be more severe. Be careful not to open, crush, chew on or break the capsule. Changes to brand, strength or form of medicine could alter dose requirements; always follow what has been recommended by your healthcare provider in order to prevent errors with medication use. Talk to your doctor about restarting the medication if you have stopped taking Flush-Free Niacin. You may have to start the medication again at a smaller dose. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using flush-free niacin. Tell your doctor that you use flush-free niacin.
Flush-free Niacin may be part of an overall treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and weight management. Be sure to follow your diet, medications, and exercise regimens. To prevent flushing, your doctor may prescribe an NSAID, such as ibuprofen or Advil. Continue to take these medications for the prescribed time. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is almost time for your next dose, do not double up on two of the same medicine at the same time. Doing so could result in serious health consequences.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Avoid alcohol. You may be at greater risk of developing liver damage, and the flushing effect of flush-free niacin can also be worsened. You could become dizzy if you abruptly stand up from sitting or lying position. Flush-free niacin is less effective if you eat foods that are high in cholesterol or fat.
Interaction with other drug
It is not recommended to take colestipol or cholestyramine. 4 hours prior to or 4 hours following the use of flush-free niacin.
Tell your doctor about your other medications, including:
- Other medicines that lower cholesterol or triglycerides
- Aspirin;
- Blood pressure medicine;
- A blood thinner: warfarin Coumadin Jantoven
This list is incomplete. Flush-free niacin may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not encompass all potential drug-drug interactions.
