Effects of aspirin upon the flushing reaction induced by niceritrol

The usefulness of niceritrol as a lipid-lowering agent is limited by a prostaglandin-mediated flushing reaction after each dose occurring in the early stages of treatment. We have tested the effect of premedication with aspirin on the reaction to 250 mg niceritrol in 30 healthy male volunteers using both subjective and observed assessments of severity. Both 300 mg and 600 mg of aspirin significantly reduced the severity of flushing when compared with placebo. No significant difference was seen between the two dose levels. Prior dosing with aspirin may increase acceptability of niceritrol and hence improve compliance.