Niacin and niacinamide are compounds found in vitamin B-3. It is found in a variety of foods such as fish, milk, eggs, meats and beans, green vegetables and cereals. As a dietary supplement, niacin and niacinamide can be used to treat vitamin B-3 deficiency that can lead to pellagra, a condition which can cause delusions, diarrhea, skin sores and confusion. However, niacin and niacinamide may lead to unwanted side effects.
Side Effects
The most common side effects include flushing or redness of the face, neck and upper chest, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure and itching. These effects are more likely to occur with high doses of B-3, such as those used during high cholesterol and triglyceride treatment, according to the website RxMed. Long-term use may lead to skin color changes, rash, dry mouth, vision changes, uric acid build-up in the joints and high blood sugar levels. Minor side effects may include upset stomach, gas and dizziness, according to MedlinePlus.
Drug Interactions
Speak with a doctor before using niacin and niacinamide as it may interact with certain drugs leading to adverse events. Taking niacin and niacinamide with medications that lower blood pressure may cause blood pressure to become too low. Caution is also advised while taking medications for the treatment of gout as niacin and niacinamide may decrease the effectiveness of these medications, making the symptoms of gout worse, according to MedlinePlus. Niacin and niacinamide may damage muscle tissue when taken in combination with certain cholesterol-lowering medications. Drinking alcohol may cause the side effects of niacin and niacinamide to become worse and increase the risk of liver damage.
Precautions and Warnings
Individuals with gallbladder disease, liver disease or peptic ulcers are advised not to take niacin and niacinamide as it may worsen these conditions. Niacin and niacinamide may also accumulate in and damage the kidneys in individuals with kidney disease. Individuals with diabetes should monitor blood sugar levels closely to avoid complications while taking niacin and niacinamide as it can increase blood sugar levels, according to MedlinePlus. Niacin and niacinamide may also worsen stomach ulcers and high doses can increase the risk of an irregular heartbeat.
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