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Flushing tips

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ADVICOR and Flushing

What is “heart disease?”

Heart disease is the phrase used on this website to cover a number of health problems where blood vessels become clogged so that blood can’t get to the heart. The result may be:
  • Heart attack
  • Bypass surgery
  • Angioplasty
  • Stent

Facts about Flushing

The most common side effect of ADVICOR® (niacin extended-release/lovastatin tablets) is flushing.

What it is:

  • Flushing is a sensation of warmth, redness, itching and/or tingling of the skin, usually on the face, neck, chest and/or back.
  • Flushing typically happens when you start taking ADVICOR or when the dosage is increased.

What to expect:

  • If it happens, flushing generally occurs a few hours after taking ADVICOR. It may last up to several hours.
  • It usually lessens after several weeks.

What to do:

  • If you experience flushing and need to stand, be sure to take your time.
  • Keep taking ADVICOR, and the flushing may diminish over time as your body adjusts.

Remember: The benefit of ADVICOR is continuous and important. Don’t stop taking ADVICOR without talking to your doctor first.

If you take ADVICOR as directed, you can help minimize flushing.

You may also help minimize flushing with a few simple tips.

Learn more about
Tips for managing flushing
  


Important Safety Information About ADVICOR

ADVICOR® (niacin extended-release/lovastatin tablets) is a prescription medication used, along with diet and exercise, to improve cholesterol levels. ADVICOR is not for everyone, including those allergic to any of its ingredients, or women who are nursing, pregnant, or may become pregnant. Consult your physician if you have a liver problem, stomach ulcers, or a serious bleeding problem. ADVICOR has not been shown to prevent heart disease or heart attacks.

If you take ADVICOR, tell your doctor about any unusual muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, as this could be a sign of a serious but rare side effect. Also tell your doctor about any other medications and vitamin supplements you are taking to avoid possible serious drug interactions. ADVICOR should be used with caution if you consume large amounts of alcohol. Your doctor will do simple blood tests before and during treatment with ADVICOR to check for liver problems.

Do not substitute ADVICOR for any other niacin products as it may cause damage to your liver. Always check with your doctor before changing your medication.

Flushing (warmth, redness, itching, and/or tingling of the skin) is the most common side effect and may become less frequent over time. In most patients, flushing is mild to moderate. Some people may experience more severe and intense flushing. Additional symptoms may include rapid or pronounced heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, chills, dizziness, fainting and/or swelling. If flushing wakes you up, take your time getting up. Other common side effects may include weakness, flu symptoms, headache, infection, pain, diarrhea, nausea, itching, and rash.

ADVICOR may cause an increase in blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, you should carefully check your blood sugar levels and report any changes to your doctor.

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