Uses and Important Safety Information You Should Know About Advicor® (niacin extended-release/lovastatin tablets)
Uses
- ADVICOR® (niacin extended-release/lovastatin tablets) is a prescription medication that contains a combination of two cholesterol medications: niacin extended-release and lovastatin. ADVICOR is used in addition to diet when a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol and other nondrug measures alone have not been successful.
- ADVICOR is used to improve cholesterol levels in people with high cholesterol and when a health care provider determines that treatment with both niacin and lovastatin is appropriate.
Important Safety Information
- ADVICOR is not for everyone, including those with liver problems, stomach ulcers, or a serious bleeding problem and those allergic to any product ingredients. ADVICOR should not be used in women who are nursing, are pregnant, or may become pregnant.
- ADVICOR should not be switched for immediate-release niacin. Serious liver damage has been reported when switching to sustained-release niacin products from immediate-release niacin. You should not change your medication before checking with your health care provider.
- ADVICOR is associated with increases in liver enzymes as measured by blood tests. Your health care provider will perform blood tests before and during treatment with ADVICOR to check for liver problems. ADVICOR should be used with caution if you consume large amounts of alcohol or have a history of liver disease.
- If you take ADVICOR, tell your health care provider about any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, as this could be a sign of a serious but rare side effect. The risk of these side effects is increased when ADVICOR is taken with certain types of medications. To avoid possible drug interactions, inform your health care provider about any other medications or vitamin supplements you are taking.
- ADVICOR may cause an increase in blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes or higher than normal blood sugar levels, you should carefully check your blood sugar levels and report any changes to your health care provider.
- Tell your health care provider if you have a history of gout or kidney problems. ADVICOR should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems.
- If you are taking another cholesterol medication called a bile acid-binding resin (colestipol or cholestyramine) along with ADVICOR, take these medicines at least 4 to 6 hours apart.
- Flushing (warmth, redness, itching, and/or tingling of the skin) is the most common side effect, and it may subside after several weeks of consistent ADVICOR use. Flushing may vary in severity and is more likely to occur when starting therapy or during dose increases. If you take ADVICOR at bedtime, flushing will most likely occur during sleep. If you are awakened by flushing, get up slowly, especially if you feel dizzy or faint or if you take blood pressure medications. Additional symptoms may include rapid or pronounced heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, chills and/or swelling.
- Other common side effects may include weakness, flu symptoms, headache, infection, pain, diarrhea, nausea, itching, and rash.
This is the most important information to know about ADVICOR. For more information, talk with your health care professional.
Reference: ADVICOR [package insert]. North Chicago, IL: Abbott Laboratories.
301-255512
