- With Mayo Clinic cardiologist
Thomas Behrenbeck, M.D.
read biographyclose windowBiography of
Thomas Behrenbeck, M.D.
Thomas Behrenbeck, M.D.
Dr. Thomas Behrenbeck is a native of Germany, where he received his medical education at the Westfalian Wilhelm University in Munster and became board certified in internal medicine and cardiology.
He also received a Ph.D. in biophysics and physiology at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Behrenbeck joined the Mayo Clinic staff in 1990 and is currently an associate professor at Mayo Medical School and an academic faculty member at the Westfalian Wilhelm University. He is chair of the Cardiovascular Medicine and Surgery NetWork of the American College of Chest Physicians.
Dr. Behrenbeck is a noninvasive cardiologist, specializing in cardiovascular (CV) imaging modalities (echocardiography, nuclear cardiology, and CT), coronary artery disease and prevention of coronary artery disease. His research interests are the application of imaging technology to early recognition and treatment of atherosclerosis. He is passionate about patients' involvement in their health issues.
"The Internet and patient education present ideal synergies in the ever-growing field of knowledge in cardiology," he said.
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Question
Niacin overdose: What are the symptoms?
I take niacin to treat my high cholesterol, but I've heard that if you take too much it can be harmful. Should I be concerned?
Answer
from Thomas Behrenbeck, M.D.
Niacin overdose is unlikely if you take niacin only in the amount prescribed by your doctor. In recommended doses, niacin is an effective treatment for high cholesterol, high blood fats (lipids) and niacin deficiency.
You likely heard that too much niacin can be harmful because of recent Internet rumors. The rumors falsely state that by taking a large amount of niacin, people can flush the chemicals that indicate marijuana use out of their bodies before they take a drug test. No studies have shown that niacin can do this, and this practice can be very dangerous because it may lead to niacin overdose.
Signs and symptoms of a niacin overdose include:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Skin flushing
- Itching
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Severe liver damage (hepatoxicity)
If you are concerned about a potential niacin overdose, talk to your doctor to make sure you're taking the correct amount. If you suspect you may have overdosed, seek emergency medical attention.
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