Niacin Side Effects

Niacin: Don’t ignore side effects.

It is common knowledge that all medicines and supplements may trigger side effects and this certainly holds true for the B vitamin Niacin.

 

Nicotinic acid (niacin) has a primary function in the body of turning carbohydrates into energy. Niacin also plays a role in the health of the nervous system, eyes, hair, skin and digestive tract. Most people manage to obtain enough niacin from their diet, though most daily multivitamins include a measure of niacin.

 

Niacin is available in higher doses over-the-counter and experts agree it is wise to consult a physician before taking these products, because of potential side effects. Some side effects are mild and some are clearly more severe.

 

A more common side effect of niacin ingestion is flushing. Flushing is a redness of the skin, generally accompanied by warm, itchy tingling. Usually this occurs on the face and trunk, but can manifest anywhere on the body. Other more frequent and uncomfortable side effects include diarrhea, headache, dizziness, indigestion, and nausea and vomiting. While these symptoms are not considered serious, they are usually annoying enough for someone to stop taking niacin.

 

Immediate medical attention is recommended for a host of more severe side effects that niacin might produce. Don’t delay in seeking help if any of these side effects develop. They include severe allergic reaction, changes in vision, fainting, bloody stools, changes in heartbeat, flu-like symptoms, yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, vomiting blood, shortness of breath, stomach pain, unusual bruising or bleeding, loss of appetite and severe heartburn.

 

These are just some of the side effects that may occur from niacin. Don’t ignore these severe side effects as they may indicate liver damage, severe stomach ulcer, gout and more.

 

Certainly, it is obvious why a medical professional should be consulted when considering a niacin supplement.