Niacin
Niacin
Snapshot
Niacin (Vitamin B₃) is a water‑soluble B‑vitamin essential for energy metabolism, DNA repair, and healthy skin, nervous, and digestive systems.
What is Niacin?
Niacin refers to two forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide. Both are precursors for NAD⁺ and NADP⁺ cofactors involved in redox reactions and cellular signaling.
Where It Comes From
Dietary sources include meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, nuts, and legumes. It is available as standalone nicotinic acid or nicotinamide supplements, and in B‑complex formulations.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides precursors for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD⁺) and its phosphate form NADP⁺, which are critical for ATP production, DNA repair, and antioxidant defense.
Health Benefits
Niacin supports cardiovascular health by improving lipid profiles (raises HDL, lowers LDL and triglycerides); aids energy production; promotes healthy skin and neurological function; and helps prevent pellagra.
Recommended Dosage
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 16 mg NE/day for men and 14 mg NE/day for women (NE = niacin equivalents). Therapeutic doses for lipid management range from 500 mg to 2 g/day under medical supervision.
How to Use It
Take niacin with meals to reduce flushing; extended‑release formulations may minimize side effects. Nicotinamide form does not cause flushing and can be taken anytime.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with dyslipidemia under physician guidance; those at risk of deficiency (e.g., malabsorption, certain medications); anyone seeking B‑vitamin support for energy metabolism.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
High doses of nicotinic acid can cause flushing, itching, gastrointestinal upset, and hepatotoxicity. Monitor liver enzymes at therapeutic doses. Caution in diabetes and gout due to potential glucose and uric acid effects.
Final Thoughts
Niacin is a versatile B‑vitamin vital for metabolic health and cholesterol management, but high-dose therapy requires supervision to manage side effects and ensure safety.
Scientific Studies
Bays H, et al. Extended‑release niacin or ezetimibe and carotid intima‑media thickness: ARBITER 6‑HALTS trial. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2008;51(8):2008–2015. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2007.11.059
Guyton JR, Bays HE. Safety considerations with niacin therapy. Am J Cardiol. 2007;99(6A):22C–31C. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjcard.2006.11.009
Knip M, Douek IF, Moore WP, et al. Safety of high‑dose nicotinamide: a review. Diabetologia. 2000;43(4):507–515. https://doi.org/10.1007/s001250051340