NIASPAN is a prescription niacin agent indicated to RAISE HDL-C, REGRESS atherosclerosis, and REDUCE recurrent, nonfatal MI.*

Flushing events over time1

Niacin-related flushing occurs as a result of several prostaglandins mediated vasodilation. Flushing is a common drug side effect of niacin. However, long-term data shows that patients taking NIASPAN often have a decrease in both the occurrence and intensity of flushing over time.1

†In patients who experienced flushing.

Flushing results from an open-label study done to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of NIASPAN taken once nightly by patients with primary hypercholesterolemia. Safety data included adverse events and laboratory data from 723 patients over a 2-year period. All patients entering this extension trial were previously enrolled in randomized, shorter-term studies or in a placebo-only qualification clinical trial. The NIASPAN median dosage was 2000 mg daily. Aspirin 325 mg taken 30 minutes before dosing could be utilized for prophylaxis and treatment of flushing. About one third of patients used aspirin to minimize flushing episodes.1

Nearly one-third of patients in this study took 325 mg of aspirin prior to NIASPAN dosing to help minimize flushing.1 Learn how proper counseling can help your patients minimize their flushing episodes.

Flushing is a common yet manageable drug side effect of niacin

Niacin-related flushing occurs as a result of several prostaglandins mediated vasodilation.2 Flushing is a common drug side effect of niacin. However, long-term data shows that patients taking NIASPAN often have a decrease in both the occurrence and intensity of flushing over time.1

*In patients with a history of coronary artery disease and hypercholesterolemia, niacin, in combination with a bile acid binding resin, is indicated to slow progression or promote regression of atherosclerotic disease. In patients with a history of myocardial infarction and hypercholesterolemia, niacin is indicated to reduce the risk of recurrent nonfatal myocardial infarction.

Next: MOA of Flushing

References

 

1. Capuzzi DM, Guyton JR, Morgan JM, et al. Efficacy and safety of an extended-release niacin (NIASPAN): a long-term study. Am J Cardiol. 1998;82:74U-81U.

2. ASHP Therapeutic Position Statement on the Safe Use of Niacin in the Management of Dyslipidemias. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 1997;54:364-367.