Advicor

Generic name: Lovastatin and niacin

What is Advicor?

Advicor is a cholesterol-lowering drug. Advicor lowers total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol, while raising the amount of HDL ("good") cholesterol.

Advicor is a combination of two cholesterol-fighting ingredients: extended-release niacin and lovastatin. It is prescribed only when other drugs and a program of diet, exercise, and weight reduction have been unsuccessful in lowering cholesterol levels.

What is the most important information I should know about Advicor?

Although you cannot feel any symptoms of high cholesterol, it is important to take Advicor every day. The drug will be more effective if it is taken as part of a program of diet, exercise, and weight loss. All these efforts keep your cholesterol levels normal and lower your risk of heart disease.

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.

Who should not take Advicor?

Do not take Advicor if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Advicor?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Advicor. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, liver problems, an ulcer, or you are going to have surgery while on this drug. Also tell your doctor if you consume a lot of alcohol.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual starting dose of Advicor is one tablet containing 500 milligrams (mg) of extended-release niacin and 20 mg of lovastatin. After 4 weeks, the dosage may be increased if necessary.

How should I take Advicor?

Take Advicor at bedtime with a low-fat snack; do not take this medication on an empty stomach. Take Advicor whole; do not break, crush, or chew tablets.

What should I avoid while taking Advicor?

Do not drink alcohol or hot drinks when taking Advicor tablets.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Advicor?

Advicor should not be taken with grapefruit juice. Also, talk to your doctor if you are taking high blood pressure medication, aspirin, alcohol, blood anticoagulants (coumarin), cyclosporine, danazol, itraconazole, ketoconazole, gemfibrozil, niacin, erythromycin, clarithromycin, telithromycin, nefazodone or HIV protease inhibitors, propanolol, digoxin, or diabetes medications.

What are the possible side effects of Advicor?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain, back pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, flushing, headache, high blood sugar, indigestion, infection, itching, muscle pain, nausea, pain, rash, vomiting, weakness

Can I receive Advicor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not begin treatment with Advicor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. This drug may cause severe harm to your unborn baby, and may pass into your breast milk. If you become pregnant while on Advicor, immediately stop your dosage and contact your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Advicor?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

How should I store Advicor?

Store at room temperature.