Does Niacin Interact with Acetylsalicylic Acid?
Niacin and Acetylsalicylic Acid have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Concomitant aspirin may decrease the metabolic clearance of nicotinic acid, though clinical relevance is unclear. The mechanism involves decreased metabolic clearance of nicotinic acid. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Niacin Class
- Nicotinic Acid
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Niacin and Acetylsalicylic Acid occurs because decreased metabolic clearance of nicotinic acid. Clinically, this means concomitant aspirin may decrease the metabolic clearance of nicotinic acid, though clinical relevance is unclear. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Niacin and your doctor is considering prescribing Acetylsalicylic Acid (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider