It's unusual to develop heart palpitations after taking niacin, but it could happen if you have an allergic reaction to the supplement or if an uncommon side effect occurs. Heart palpitations can make your heart beat irregularly. Heart palpitations may result in lightheadedness, dizziness and fainting. Stop using niacin supplements and call your doctor if you develop heart palpitations.
Niacin
Niacin is a type of B vitamin commonly used to reduce the amount of cholesterol in your blood, according to PubMed Health. The supplement is sold over the counter in tablet form and is commonly taken three times daily with meals. If you purchase an extended-time-release tablet, you only take one pill daily. Always talk to your doctor before taking a niacin supplement, especially if you have a stomach ulcer, gout, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes or heart disease.
Side Effects
The website Drugs.com identifies heart palpitations as a potential serious side effect from taking niacin. Other serious side effects may include shortness of breath, lightheadedness, swelling, muscle pain, flu-like symptoms, dark-colored urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes and fainting. Contact emergency medical personnel if you develop one or more of these symptoms. Less serous side effects may include dizziness, leg cramps, sweating, chills, warm skin, dry skin, itchy skin and insomnia.
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction to niacin can also result in heart palpitations. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, it might take two to three doses of the supplement before you develop symptoms of the allergy. An allergic reaction that causes heart palpitations is a severe reaction that requires emergency medical attention. Heart palpations are a common sign of anaphylaxis, a severe reaction that affects the entire the body, sending it into a state of shock. Other symptoms of anaphylaxis include facial swelling, hives, shortness of breath and throat swelling.
Treatment
The most effective treatment for adverse reactions to niacin is to discontinue use of the supplement and talk with your doctor about another medication to treat high cholesterol. You may need an injection of epinephrine to restore normal functionality of your body and alleviate heart palpations.
