Niacin is used to lower blood levels of "bad" cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL) and triglycerides, and increase levels of "good" cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, or HDL).

Niaspan Niaspan is used to lower the risk of a heart attack in people who have high cholesterol and who have a history of heart attacks. can also be used with another cholesterol medicine to slow down the build-up of fatty deposits in your arteries.

Niacin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not take niacin if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

It is not known whether niacin will harm an unborn baby. You may not be able to use this medicine during pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

Do not breastfeed.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

• severe liver disease;
• a stomach ulcer; or
• active bleeding.

• liver disease;
• kidney problems;
• heart disease, chest pain (angina);
• gout; or
• diabetes.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Use Heliocare Advanced (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Get emergency medical help if you have : hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. signs of an allergic reaction

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• heart attack symptoms--chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating;
• high blood sugar--increased thirst, increased urination, dry mouth, fruity breath odor;
• unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness;
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• irregular heartbeats;
• severe warmth or redness under your skin;
• vision problems; or
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

• flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• abnormal liver function tests;
• itching, rash, dry skin;
• cough;
• skin discoloration; or
• headache.

Common side effects may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of liver damage, and can also worsen the flushing effects of niacin.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy.

Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol, or niacin will not be as effective.