Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.  

This is Niaspan.  

Niaspan can help improve your cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It is best to take it at bedtime with a low-fat snack. It's an 'extended release' tablet that releases the medication slowly into your body, so swallow it whole and don't crush or chew it.  

At first and with dose increases, it is common to have flushing of your skin. When you take your dose, avoid alcohol, spicy foods and hot beverages to minimize this.  Flushing is normal and should go away. But, if this or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medication, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Also, if you ever stop taking Niaspan, talk to your doctor first before restarting it.  

In rare cases, serious side effects can occur, so call your doctor right away if you notice unusual changes, like dizziness, or muscle pain or weakness. To reduce side effects and interactions, it's important to let your doctor and pharmacist know before taking any new medications.  

Also, your doctor will monitor blood work to make sure this medication remains safe and effective for you.  

For best results, continue taking Niaspan, and follow the diet and exercise program recommended by your doctor.