Advicor

Why should Advicor not be prescribed?

If you are allergic to niacin or lovastatin, you cannot take Advicor. You also should avoid Advicor if you have liver disease, an ulcer, or arterial bleeding. Never take Advicor during pregnancy or while you are breastfeeding.

Special warnings about Advicor

Advicor can cause liver problems. Your doctor will test your liver function before you start taking this medication, then every 6 to 12 weeks for the first 6 months after you begin therapy, and every 6 months thereafter. If the tests reveal a problem, you may have to stop taking Advicor. Individuals who regularly drink alcohol or have a history of liver disease should use this drug with caution. Avoid Advicor completely if you currently have liver disease.

The extended-release niacin in Advicor is not interchangeable with immediate-release niacin. Substituting doses of extended-release niacin for immediate-release niacin can cause severe liver damage.

Drugs like Advicor may trigger a muscle-wasting condition that also can affect the kidneys. The risk is increased if Advicor is taken with certain drugs or grapefruit juice. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. You may have to stop taking Advicor. Use Advicor with caution if you have kidney disease, gout, or the chest pain of angina.

Advicor may cause flushing. This side effect usually goes away after taking the medication for several weeks. Flushing can be accompanied by dizziness, fainting, heartbeat irregularities, chills, shortness of breath, or swelling. Notify your doctor if you experience dizziness. If you awaken because of flushing, rise slowly to avoid dizziness and fainting. Taking aspirin or ibuprofen before taking Advicor may help decrease the flushing. Avoid drinking alcohol or hot drinks near the time you take Advicor; these can increase flushing.

If you have diabetes, Advicor may affect your blood sugar levels. Tell your doctor if you note any changes.