Niaspan Side Effects

The most common side effect of Niaspan is flushing of the face and neck, which occurs in up to 88 percent of people taking the drug. Other common side effects include headache, diarrhea, and nausea. Potentially serious side effects, such as fainting spells or dizziness and yellowing of the skin, should be reported to your healthcare provider right away.

An Introduction to Niaspan Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects can occur with the use of
 Niaspan® (niacin extended-release); but not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. If Niaspan side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. In previous research studies, up to 6 percent of people stopped taking Niaspan because of side effects.
 
The use of Niaspan with a statin (Crestor®, Pravachol®, Lescol®, Mevacor®, Altoprev®, Lipitor®, Zocor®) has been associated with a rare but serious side effect known as rhabdomyolysis (serious breakdown of muscle). Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by a fever or unusual tiredness.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Niaspan. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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