Niacin is a type of B vitamin that can be used to help reduce bad cholesterol, or low-density lipoprotein, levels while increasing good cholesterol, or high-density lipoprotein levels. While niacin can be found in certain foods, such as fish, lean meats, nuts and dairy products, the cholesterol-lowering benefits of this vitamin are typically associated with higher doses of niacin, which are found in certain prescription niacin dietary supplements. You should discuss the side effects of niacin with a doctor before taking this supplement to lower your cholesterol levels.
Upset Stomach
Treatment with niacin may cause upset stomach side effects. After taking a dose of this supplement, you may experience nausea, vomiting or heartburn, Drugs.com warns. You may also develop diarrhea, which may cause abdominal bloating, pain, cramping or discomfort. Prolonged treatment with high doses of niacin to help reduce your cholesterol levels may also result in the formation of a stomach ulcer. If you experience symptoms of a stomach ulcer, including chronic stomach pain or blood in your stools or vomit, seek medical care as soon as possible.
Unusual Skin Sensations
After taking a dose of niacin, you may experience a side effect referred to as "niacin flush," according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This side effect is characterized by an abnormal reddening of the face or chest that is accompanied by a tingling, itching, burning or warm sensation. These unusual skin sensations are temporary and typically resolve shortly after treatment. If you find these sensations bothersome, UMMC health professional recommend taking a dose of aspirin approximately 30 minutes prior to taking niacin to help prevent niacin flush.
Headache or Blurred Vision
You may experience headache pain or blurred vision as side effects following treatment with niacin, PubMed Health reports. If these side effects occur, you may have difficulty concentrating at work or home or you may feel unstable while standing or walking. Episodes of dizziness or fainting that occur while you are taking niacin should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Jaundice
Taking high doses of niacin to help lower your cholesterol levels may cause liver damage, MayoClinic.com warns. Symptoms of liver damage include jaundice, an unusual yellow discoloration of your skin and the whites of your eyes. Jaundice may also develop in conjunction with stomach upset side effects, including nausea or stomach pain. If you experience liver damage symptoms while taking niacin, consult a physician as soon as possible for further evaluation and care.
