A common side effect of niacin therapy is?

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Multiple Choice

A common side effect of niacin therapy is?

Niacin’s most characteristic and common adverse effect is flushing of the skin with itching. This happens because niacin prompts the release of certain prostaglandins (like PGE2 and PGD2) in the skin, leading to rapid dilation of small blood vessels and a warm, red, itchy sensation. The effect is dose-related and often occurs soon after taking the dose, which is why patients notice it early in therapy. To reduce flushing, start with a low dose and titrate slowly, take with meals, avoid alcohol and hot beverages, and consider aspirin pretreatment or an extended-release formulation if needed. While GI discomfort, hyperglycemia, or hyperuricemia can occur, flushing is the hallmark side effect that most commonly drives intolerance.

Niacin’s most characteristic and common adverse effect is flushing of the skin with itching. This happens because niacin prompts the release of certain prostaglandins (like PGE2 and PGD2) in the skin, leading to rapid dilation of small blood vessels and a warm, red, itchy sensation. The effect is dose-related and often occurs soon after taking the dose, which is why patients notice it early in therapy. To reduce flushing, start with a low dose and titrate slowly, take with meals, avoid alcohol and hot beverages, and consider aspirin pretreatment or an extended-release formulation if needed. While GI discomfort, hyperglycemia, or hyperuricemia can occur, flushing is the hallmark side effect that most commonly drives intolerance.

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