Side Effects of Niacin Extended-Release (Cont.)

Common Side Effects of Niacin Extended-Release

Niacin extended-release has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, side effects are always documented and compared to side effects that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. Based on these studies, the most common side effects of niacin extended-release include:
 
  • Flushing of the face and neck -- up to 88 percent
  • Headache -- up to 11 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 8 percent
  • Nausea and vomiting -- up to 8 percent
  • Stomach pain -- up to 5 percent
  • Indigestion or heartburn -- up to 5 percent
  • Generalized pain -- up to 5 percent
  • Runny nose -- up to 5 percent
  • Rash and itching -- up to 5 percent.
     

Niacin Extended-Release Side Effects to Report

There are a number of side effects with niacin extended-release that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider. These include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you have a fever or feel ill
  • Severe stomach pain and loss of appetite
  • Severe nausea or vomiting
  • Fainting spells or dizziness
  • Passing brown or dark-colored urine
  • Passing gray-colored stools
  • Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes
  • Heart palpitations (irregular heartbeats)
  • Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Feeling more tired that usual
  • Unexplained rash or itching.
     
(Side Effects of Niacin Extended-Release Continued: Page 3)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;