Side Effects of Slo Niacin

Slo-Niacin is an over-the-counter form of niacin, a type of B vitamin that helps support heart health. Your doctor may recommend treatment with this natural supplement if you have certain types of medical problems such as high cholesterol. Discuss the side effects of Slo-Niacin with your health care professional prior to beginning treatment with this supplement.

Niacin Flush

A side effect called "niacin flush" commonly occurs in people receiving treatment with niacin. Treatment with Slo-Niacin may cause the development of niacin flush symptoms in as little as 20 minutes following treatment, Kaiser Permanente warns. Consequently, you may feel unusually warm or may develop uncomfortable skin sensations such as itching, warmth or tingling across your body. Your skin may also appear red or flushed and you may begin to sweat. Niacin flush is a temporary side effect of Slo-Niacin and flushing symptoms generally subside within a few hours of treatment. Consult a doctor if you find niacin flush symptoms bothersome.

Upset Stomach

Slo-Niacin may irritate your stomach and can cause upset stomach side effects, Drugs.com reports. Stomach irritation may lead to nausea, vomiting or appetite loss. If these side effects persist or become severe, contact your medical provider for further evaluation and care.

Diarrhea

You may experience frequent bowel movements, also called diarrhea, as a side effect of taking Slo-Niacin, Kaiser Permanente explains. Diarrhea may cause your stools to appear unusually runny or loose. You may also experience uncomfortable abdominal cramping or bloating in conjunction with diarrhea. Bowel movement changes may exacerbate other stomach-related side effects of Slo-Niacin, including nausea or appetite changes.

References

Article reviewed by Mia Paul Last updated on: Oct 31, 2010

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