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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Could Cause Sharp Jabbing Pain Under The Left Arm, Headache, Stomach Discomfort And Tightness In The Throat After Taking Niacin?

I took 500 mg of niacin and about an hour later felt like something rough or sharp was jabbing me under my left arm. could not find anything physical doing it. a later felt somewhat sick at my stomach, my head hurt, and my throat felt tight. I took a rest and felt somewhat better but my stomach hurt with feelings of needing to go to the bathroom. lots of urine but not much in the way of bowels.
Wed, 29 Mar 2023
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Niacin is a form of vitamin B3 that is often used to treat high cholesterol levels. While niacin is generally safe when taken at recommended doses, some individuals may experience side effects, especially when taking high doses. The symptoms you are experiencing, including sharp jabbing pain under the left arm, headache, stomach discomfort, and tightness in the throat, could be related to a niacin overdose or hypersensitivity reaction.

Niacin can cause flushing of the skin, which can feel like a prickling or burning sensation, and this may be what you are feeling under your left arm. Other symptoms of a niacin overdose or hypersensitivity reaction may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing.

If you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen, you should seek medical attention immediately. It's also important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, including niacin, to ensure that they are safe for you to use and that you are taking them at appropriate doses.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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What Could Cause Sharp Jabbing Pain Under The Left Arm, Headache, Stomach Discomfort And Tightness In The Throat After Taking Niacin?

Hi, Niacin is a form of vitamin B3 that is often used to treat high cholesterol levels. While niacin is generally safe when taken at recommended doses, some individuals may experience side effects, especially when taking high doses. The symptoms you are experiencing, including sharp jabbing pain under the left arm, headache, stomach discomfort, and tightness in the throat, could be related to a niacin overdose or hypersensitivity reaction. Niacin can cause flushing of the skin, which can feel like a prickling or burning sensation, and this may be what you are feeling under your left arm. Other symptoms of a niacin overdose or hypersensitivity reaction may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. If you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen, you should seek medical attention immediately. It s also important to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, including niacin, to ensure that they are safe for you to use and that you are taking them at appropriate doses. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician