High-density lipoprotein, or "good" cholesterol, levels that are less than 50 mg/dL for women and 40 mg/dL for men or total cholesterol levels that exceed 200 mg/dL increase the risk of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association, or AHA. If you are one of the 102.2 million adults in the United States that have high cholesterol levels, your doctor may recommend treatment with niacin, a type of B vitamin. Niacin helps reduce "bad" or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels while raising good cholesterol levels. Talk with a doctor about the potential side effects of taking niacin to reduce your total cholesterol levels before beginning treatment with this supplement.
Niacin Flushing
"Niacin flushing" may occur as a side effect of taking niacin, the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, warns. If you experience niacin flushing, you may notice that your skin feels unusually warm, tingling or itchy and appears flushed or red. Though this side effect may be uncomfortable, it is typically temporary and resolves shortly after treatment. Taking an aspirin 30 minutes before treatment with niacin may help prevent or reduce niacin flushing side effects, the UMMC advises.
Stomach Discomfort
After taking a dose of this B vitamin supplement, you may experience mild to moderate stomach discomfort. Stomach-related side effects may include heartburn, bloating, nausea or vomiting, PubMed Health reports. Diarrhea may also occur, which may cause you to have frequent bowel movements that produce loose stools. Recurrent treatment with high doses of niacin to reduce your cholesterol levels may also increase your risk of developing a stomach ulcer. If you notice blood in your vomit or stools or if you experience chronic stomach pain while taking niacin, seek prompt care from a doctor.
Blurred Vision, Dizziness or Headache
Vision changes, such as blurred or cloudy vision, may occur while you are receiving treatment with niacin, the Drugs website warns. These vision changes may result in episodes of dizziness or recurrent headache pain. If you experience these side effects, you may also have difficulty remaining focused, alert or attentive during your normal daily activities. Contact your physician as soon as possible if these side effects become severe or persistent.
Liver Damage
Taking large doses of niacin may put you at risk of developing liver damage, the UMMC reports. Liver damage symptoms may include yellow skin discoloration, stomach pain, fatigue or weakness, dark urine, pale stools or itchy skin. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking niacin, consult your medical provider as soon as possible.
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