Niaspan Controlled-Release works by reducing LDL bad cholesterol and triglycerides and increasing HDL good cholesterol. Niaspan contains niacin, also called nicotinic acid, a B vitamin (vitamin B3). It occurs naturally in plants and animals and is present in many multiple vitamin supplements. Niaspan lowers cholesterol levels, reducing the risk for a second heart attack, slows or treats hardening of the arteries, and lowers very high serum triglyceride levels. It is used in combination with diet. Niaspan may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.

Do not take Niaspan if you are allergic to niacin, or if you have severe liver disease, a stomach ulcer, or active bleeding.
Niaspan can cause certain side effects, such as flushing (warmth, itching, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin). These effects can be made worse if you drink alcohol or hot beverages shortly after you take Niaspan. These effects should disappear over time as you keep taking the medication.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.
Avoid taking colestipol (Colestid) or cholestyramine (Locholest, Prevalite, Questran) at the same time you take Niaspan. If you take either of these other medications, take them at least 4 to 6 hours before or after you take Niaspan.
Niaspan is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and other medications. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
feeling light-headed, fainting;
fast, pounding, or uneven heart beats;
feeling short of breath;
swelling;
jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes); or
muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness with fever or flu symptoms and dark colored urine.
If you are diabetic, tell your doctor about any changes in your blood sugar levels.
Less serious side effects of Niaspan include:
mild dizziness;
warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin;
itching, dry skin;
sweating or chills;
nausea, diarrhea, belching, gas;
muscle pain, leg cramps; or
sleep problems (insomnia).
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Niaspan is sometimes taken at bedtime with a low-fat snack. Follow your doctor`s instructions.
Niaspan can cause certain side effects, such as flushing (warmth, itching, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin). These effects can be made worse if you drink alcohol or hot beverages shortly after you take Niaspan. These effects should disappear over time as you keep taking the medication.
Take Niaspan with a full glass of cold or cool water. Taking the medication with a hot drink may increase your risk of side effects such as flushing. Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release tablet or capsule. Swallow the pill whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking or opening the pill would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. Take only the dose that is correct for the type of niacin tablet or capsule you are using.
Niaspan can cause you to have unusual results with certain medical tests (urine tests). Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Niaspan.
If you stop taking Niaspan for any length of time, talk with your doctor before starting the medication again. You may need to restart the medication at a lower dose.
Niaspan is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and other medications. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.