Niaspan XR

Before taking this medicine

Do not take Niaspan XR if you are allergic to niacin or any ingredient in the tablets, have active liver disease, significant or unexplained liver dysfunction, persistently raised liver enzymes without an explained cause, an active peptic ulcer, or arterial bleeding. Extra caution is needed if you have kidney impairment, unstable angina, are in the acute phase of a heart attack, or have a history of jaundice, liver or bile duct disease, or peptic ulcers. Tell your prescriber if you take nitrates, calcium channel blockers or adrenergic blocking medicines. Muscle damage, including serious muscle breakdown, is a concern, particularly in older people, those with diabetes, kidney failure or uncontrolled hypothyroidism, and those taking a statin. Liver enzymes should be checked before and during treatment. Niacin can raise blood sugar, so close monitoring is needed if you have diabetes or are at risk of developing it. During pregnancy, treatment for high cholesterol should be stopped; treatment for high triglycerides requires an individual assessment of risks and benefits. Do not breastfeed during treatment.