I was on simcor, which is heavy dose of niacin plus simvastatin....

Classic symptoms from Niacin overload. Many people find it untolerable. The human body is simply not designed to have toxic levels of niacin, but rather is designed to function on a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals. Is it any wonder people get so sick on this stuff?

Niaspan has a side effect called flushing. This is what you are experiencing. The good news is it goes away as your body gets used to the medicine. There are also several things you can do to make it more tollerable such as taking an aspirin 30 minutes before taking niaspan or simcor and taking it at bedtime with applesauce or another low fat snack. Also do not take with alcohol or spicy foods or hot beverages. I assure you the benefit of this medicine is it could very well save your life. If you can just follow these directions and be consistent the flushing will go away after a few weeks and you will be much healthier!