Generic name:  niacin (nicotinic acid)  [ NYE-a-sin ]
Brand names:  B-3-50 ,  B3-500-Gr ,  Endur-acin ,  HDL Benefit , Niacin SR,  … show all 8 brands
Drug classes:  Miscellaneous antihyperlipidemic agents ,  Vitamins

What is Niacin SR?

Niacin  SR is used to lower blood levels of “bad” cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL) and triglycerides, and increase levels of “good” cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL).

Niacin SR may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not take Niacin SR if you have severe  liver disease , a  stomach ulcer , or active bleeding.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take Niacin SR if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• severe liver disease;
• a stomach ulcer; or
• active bleeding.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• liver disease;
• heart disease, chest pain ( angina );
• gout; or
• diabetes.

It is not known whether Niacin SR will harm an unborn baby. You may not be able to use Niacin SR SR during pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

You should not breastfeed while using Niacin SR.

Niacin SR is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Niacin SR ?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Niacin SR can cause flushing (warmth, itching, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin). These effects should disappear over time as you keep taking the medicine. Flushing may be worse if you drink alcohol or hot beverages shortly after taking Niacin SR.

Swallow the capsule or tablet whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.

Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using only the form and strength your doctor prescribes.

If you stop taking Niacin SR 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.

This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Niacin SR.

Niacin SR is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Your doctor may recommend you take  aspirin  or an NSAID (such as  ibuprofen ,  Advil , or  Aleve ) to help prevent flushing. Keep using these medicines for as long as your doctor has prescribed.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Detailed Niacin SR dosage information

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Niacin SR ?

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of liver damage, and can also worsen the flushing effects of Niacin SR.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy.

Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol, or Niacin SR will not be as effective.

Niacin SR side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:  hives ; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Niacin SR may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• irregular heartbeats;
• severe warmth or redness under your skin;
• vision problems; or
• jaundice  (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects of Niacin SR may include:

• flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• upset stomach ,  vomiting ,  diarrhea ;
• abnormal  liver function tests ;
• itching,  dry skin ;
• cough;
• skin discoloration; or
• headache .

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Niacin SR side effects  (more detail)

What other drugs will affect Niacin SR?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• statin cholesterol medication;
• heart or blood pressure medication; or
• other medicines that lower blood pressure.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Niacin SR, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines,  vitamins , and  herbal products . Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

source :: https://www.drugs.com/mtm/niacin-sr.html