Niacin is a vitamin that is useful in improving cholesterol levels. It raised HDL cholesterol and reduces LDL cholesterol. Although it can be very beneficial health wise, it comes with a very annoying side effect called the niacin flush.

The niacin flush usually occurs on the upper portions of the body, particularly the face. Some experience it on other parts of the body and a few have it over their entire body.

The flush is where the skin starts to feel itchy or tingly. The skin can also turn red during the niacin flush. It can be very uncomfortable but it can have other side effects with it. Also present may be chills, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, fainting or an elevated heart rate.

There are some ways to possibly prevent the niacin flush. One way is to start with a small sized dose of niacin. Gradually add more over a long period of time until you reach the full dose.

There may be a small amount of flushing even with gradually building the dose, but it should be light and will go away soon. If you stop the niacin regimen you’ll have to start all over with a small dose as severe flushing may occur if you start at a higher dose rather than gently building the dose over time.

There are a couple of over the counter pain medications that may help to prevent niacin flushing. The anti-inflammatory, ibuprofen tends to work well as does aspirin.

Take an aspirin about thirty minutes before the niacin. This seems to help control the niacin flush or at least keep it to a minimum effect. Be sure to take all medications with a meal to avoid stomach upset.

Taking niacin with food may also help prevent flushing. Avoid hot drinks, or alcoholic drinks with the dose of niacin. Either of these can cause flushing. And if it is possible, ask your physician for a time released dose of niacin. These can be taken at bedtime which makes it likely you will not even know if you do flush.

Discuss with your doctor or health care professional before taking any kind of “no-flush” niacin. Usually, it may alleviate the flushing, but it is also ineffective in helping control cholesterol levels.

Niacin is a beneficial tool which helps control good and bad cholesterol levels. Flushing can be expected. Taking measures to prevent the niacin flush are worth the health benefit provided by niacin.