What is the ” niacin flush” side effect?
The risks and side effects vary for the different types of niacin. The common nuisance side effect is the “niacin flush” characterized by warmth, redness, tingling, and possible itching in the face, neck, and chest. While this side effect is unpleasant, it is not serious. Flushing tends to occur shortly after you take your niacin dose and can last for a few hours. It is a particular problem with immediate-release niacin because of its rapid absorption and multiple daily doses (usually 2 or 3 pills per day). Flushing is less of a problem with long-acting niacin because it is generally absorbed over 12 hours and the niacin is slowly released into the bloodstream. Absorption rates and number of daily doses vary between long-acting products and preparations. Extended-release niacin (Niaspan) is absorbed over 8 to 12 hours, more quickly than long-acting niacin.133 However, because it is taken only once a day at bedtime, niacin is released when you are asleep and less likely to experience or
