Whether you call it vitamin B3, niacin or nicotinic acid, niacin is a vitamin your body uses to change the foods you eat into an energy source. Your body also uses it to produce hormones. Your physician might recommend taking it, however, if you have high cholesterol because nicotinic acid can lessen the amount of cholesterol in your blood. Nicotinic acid is not without its side effects -- including a symptom known as "niacin flush." Because niacin opens your blood vessels, this can increase the blood flow to your skin, causing you to appear red and have a feeling of heat on your skin.
Step 1
Start with smaller dosages, if your physician gives you the OK. Starting with larger doses of niacin, such as 50 mg or more, can contribute to niacin flushing symptoms. By starting smaller and gradually increasing your dosage, your body has time to acclimate to the medicine's effects, which can minimize flushing symptoms.
Step 2
Take an aspirin 30 minutes prior to taking your niacin. Aspirin has been shown to reduce the flushing effects of niacin. If you cannot take aspirin, however, ask your physician about possible alternatives.
Step 3
Take niacin with or immediately after a meal or snack. This has been shown to reduce flushing and upset stomach symptoms associated with niacin. Avoid drinking hot beverages or alcohol when taking niacin, however. These beverages can further open your blood vessels.
Step 4
Ask your physician about taking an extended-release niacin product. These medications are meant to be taken at night. You can take the medication, then go to sleep, so you will experience the niacin flush while you are asleep and are less aware of its effects.
Tips and Warnings
- Even with preventive steps, it is possible to experience niacin flush. To minimize your effects, place cool, damp cloths on any affected areas. You also might wish to sip cool water to help reduce feelings of warmth that can accompany niacin flushing.
- While niacin flushing is generally considered to be harmless, notify your physician if you experience extreme discomfort when taking niacin. Your physician might be able to prescribe a special no-flush form of niacin to minimize symptoms. These medications are not considered to be as effective as their counterparts that can cause flushing.
Things You'll Need
- Aspirin
