Generic name:niacin (nicotinic acid) [ NYE-a-sin ]
Brand names: B-3-50, B3-500-Gr, Niacin SR, Niacor, Niaspan ER, Slo-Niacin
Drug classes:Miscellaneous antihyperlipidemic agents, Vitamins
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 5, 2022.
What is Niaspan ER?
Niaspan ER extended 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 ER is used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides (types of fat) in the blood. It is also used to lower the risk of heart attack in people with high cholesterol who have already had a heart attack. It is sometimes used to treat coronary artery disease (also called atherosclerosis).
Niaspan ER may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not take Niaspan ER if you are allergic to niacin, or if you have severe liver disease, a stomach ulcer, or active bleeding.
Niaspan ER 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 ER. 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 ER. If you take either of these other medications, take them at least 4 to 6 hours before or after you take this medicine.
Niaspan ER 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...
