Arthritis is inflammation of your joints, which causes stiffness and pain. There are many types, but the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Niacin, which is also known as vitamin B3, nicotinic acid and its relative niacinamide, is most commonly used for treating high cholesterol but may help arthritis as well.
Benefits
As early as 1943, doctors were using niacin and niacinamide to treat arthritis, reporting that niacin improved joint motility and function, and frequently decreased swelling. A pilot study published by W.B. Jonas in 1996 in "Inflammation Research" found that patients with osteoarthritis had improved joint flexibility and reduced inflammation after 12 weeks of treatment with niacinamide. According to a 2006 review published in "Arthritis Research and Therapy," this is the most recent well-controlled study on the use of niacin for arthritis.
Considerations
Niacin has not been systematically studied for treatment of arthritis, and well-controlled clinical studies are needed to support its use for this condition. However, it is approved for use in other conditions such as high cholesterol.
Dosage
Niacin and niacinamide have not been extensively studied for arthritis, but preliminary studies found improvements using a dose of 3,000 milligrams a day, in the form of six 500 mg tablets over the course of the day. According to MayoClinic.com, doses of 50 mg to 6 grams are used to treat other conditions.
Side Effects
According to MayoClinic.com, niacin can cause flushing and a feeling of warmth in the face and ears upon starting or increasing use. This effect usually subsides within one to two weeks. Niacin may also cause itchiness and dry skin. Less common side effects include nausea, vomiting and other stomach upset.
Warnings
Some people may experience an allergic reaction to niacin. It can also cause ulcers and liver failure. Liver function should be monitored through regular blood tests while you are taking niacin.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Arthritis Definition
- Mayo Clinic: Niacin (Vitamin B3, Nicotinic Acid) Niacinamide
- Canadian Medical Association Journal: "Treatment of Arthritis by Nicotinic Acid and Nicotinamide"; Hoffer; 1959
- Inflammation Research: "The effect of niacinamide on osteoarthritis: A pilot study"; Jonas, Rapoza, Blair; 1996
- Arthritis Research and Therapy: "Osteoarthritis and nutrition. From nutraceuticals to functional foods: a systematic review of the scientific evidence"; Ameye, Chee; 2006
