cholesterol medicine advicor side effects.?

[MICHAELITO]

I took advicor for two days this past weekend and decided not to take it because it gave me a pulling feeling and discomfort in the left side of my chest as if someone was pulling a long vein. Also a numbness on my left arm. I also got a very bad headache on the back of my head that went down to my neck. Is this normal for this medication or any other cholesterol medication to give you such a type of side effect?

[iMedic]

As with any prescription medication, there can be side effects with ADVICOR® (niacin extended-release/lovastatin tablets). ADVICOR is generally well tolerated; side effects are usually mild to moderate. The most common side effect is flushing—a sensation of warmth, redness, itching, and/or tingling of the skin, usually on the face, neck, chest and/or back. Additional symptoms may include rapid or pronounced heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, chills, dizziness, fainting and/or swelling.

Most patients have flushing when they first start taking ADVICOR or when the dose is increased. For most people, the flushing is mild to moderate, but it may be intense for some. For many patients, the flushing may lessen over time. In studies, 8 percent of patients stopped taking ADVICOR because of flushing.

Other common side effects may include weakness, flu symptoms, headache, infection, pain, diarrhea, nausea, itching and rash.

Who should not take ADVICOR:

People with liver problems, stomach ulcers, or a serious bleeding problem, or allergies to its ingredients should not take ADVICOR. Women who are nursing, pregnant, or may become pregnant should not take ADVICOR. If you notice any unusual muscle pain, tenderness or weakness when taking ADVICOR, talk to your doctor immediately.