If you are switching from
Niaspan® (extended-release
niacin), your healthcare provider may recommend that you start with a dosage of
niacin extended-release/simvastatin that is higher than normally recommended, based on your current
Niaspan dosage. For instance, if you take Niaspan 1000 mg daily, you could start with
niacin extended-release/
simvastatin 1000/20 mg once daily, instead of the usual 500/20 mg once daily. However, this does not apply to any other type of niacin, including slow-release niacin (such as Slo-Niacin
®) or immediate-release niacin products.
General Information on Dosing With Niacin Extended-Release/Simvastatin
Some considerations for people taking niacin extended-release/simvastatin include:
- Your niacin extended-release/simvastatin medication should be taken at bedtime with a low-fat snack.
- Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not break, chew, or crush the niacin extended-release/simvastatin tablets.
- Alcohol and hot drinks may worsen flushing symptoms and itchy skin, which are common side effects of niacin extended-release/simvastatin. Alcohol and hot drinks should be avoided close to the time that the medicine is taken.
- For the medication to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. The drug will not work if you stop taking it.
- Remember that lowering cholesterol begins with lifestyle changes (weight loss, low cholesterol diet, and exercise). If lifestyle changes do not lower cholesterol to a desirable level, cholesterol medications, such as niacin extended-release/simvastatin, may be necessary. However, even for those who are taking cholesterol medication, lifestyle changes are still important for maintaining a good cholesterol level.
- If you are unsure about anything related to your niacin extended-release/simvastatin dosage, talk to your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Do not stop taking niacin extended-release/simvastatin without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
Previous