Dr. Gott: Husband’s night sweats from niacin?

Dear Dr. Gott: I am writing to you about a problem my husband has been experiencing for several months. He wakes up in the middle of the night covered in sweat. It is similar to night sweats experienced by many menopausal women.

He is 41, in great physical shape, has high triglycerides and takes several medications (Niaspan, half an 81-milligram aspirin and Pravachol). He also has borderline hypertension that he is trying to control with diet.

The sweats happen whether he takes his medication or not. They seem to appear more on days when he has exercised very hard. Is this a sign of some type of health problem? What can he do about it?

Dear Reader: I’m not certain that your husband’s medications are to blame. Niaspan (prescription niacin) is known to cause flushing, sweating, chills and more. Side effects generally decrease after three to four weeks of therapy, however. Sweats can also, rarely, be a symptom of hidden infection.

I recommend that your husband be examined and tested by his primary care physician. While awaiting his appointment, he may wish to discontinue the Niaspan temporarily. He should continue the Pravachol, however. If this simple remedy stops the night sweats, his physician can forego the testing and take him off the Niaspan. Your husband may wish to try some other therapy, such as omega-3 or flaxseed oil in conjunction with the Pravachol. If the night sweats continue, your husband should follow through with an exam and testing by his primary care physician.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Understanding Cholesterol.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: I am a 71-year-old female. I have been taking Actonel for four years but am worried about it. My doctor and dentist say I should continue to take it because the only problem I could have was if I needed a tooth pulled, and even then it’s probable that nothing bad would happen anyway. I would greatly appreciate your input on this matter.

Dear Reader: Actonel and similar medications are commonly prescribed for patients with osteoporosis. Unfortunately, these drugs may have unpleasant side effects, including, rarely, destruction of the jawbone.

You must assess the risks and benefits of Actonel therapy. If you have cancer, existing dental disease or poor dental hygiene, you may be at a higher (but still minimal) risk of developing osteonecrosis of the jaw.

You have been taking the medication for four years without any side effects. I recommend that you continue it under the guidance of your doctor.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Osteoporosis.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.