Exactly why does niacin give you a red flush?


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Answers:
"Niacin can cause a number of side effects, the most notable being a flush. The flush comes from guard cells (called mast cells) stationed throughout the body. These cells respond to foreign material by initiating an immune response. High doses of niacin cause the mast cells to release histamines, which dilate the blood vessels. We experience this as a red flush and a sensation variously experienced as a burning, stinging, or flushing."

I have several friends and family members who take niacin. The ones who follow the specific directions each time (take 200mg ibuprofen 30 minutes before the niacin, take niacin with a low-fat snack such as yogurt, and lastly take it close to bedtime) have never had a problem with the flush.

Other Answers:
yep
it opens auxilary blood vessals
Doctor told my mom and I that it's because it opens your blood vessels
Niacinide won't cause the flush.

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