Migraine is a pulsing or throbbing pain in one area of the head, along with increased sensitivity to light and sound. The condition occurs due to the opening and narrowing of blood vessels in the head. Several factors such as anxiety, stress, certain foods or lack of them, and hormonal changes can trigger migraine headaches. Avoiding the triggers and taking over-the-counter pain medications help manage the condition. Vitamin B-3, or niacin, supplements may also help treat migraines naturally, but always talk to a doctor before using them.
About Niacin
Niacin is a part of the water-soluble vitamin B complex that plays an important role in the proper functioning of the digestive and nervous systems. It also helps maintain healthy skin. MedlinePlus recommends 2 to 14 mg of niacin per day, depending on the age and overall condition of the patient. The vitamin can be obtained from dairy products, poultry, fish, nuts and eggs. Synthetic and natural vitamin B-3, or niacin, supplements are also available at most local pharmacies without a prescription.
Link Between Niacin and Migraine
Niacin supplements can help prevent and treat migraine and tension-type headaches, according to a study reported in the January 2005 issue of "Nutrition Journal." The authors of the study recommend more research and proper clinical trials to determine the actual mechanism and dosage of niacin required to treat migraines. Two case reports in a 2003 issue of the "Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine" also suggest that niacin can help treat migraine headaches by interacting with hormonelike chemicals known as prostaglandins and promoting the dilation of the blood vessels. Another study reported in the June 2003 issue of the journal "Mayo Clinic Proceedings" also states that sustained-release niacin can help prevent migraine headaches, especially in individuals who are resistant to more conventional treatments.
Side Effects
Niacin supplements are generally safe to use. However, side effects such as headache, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and heartburn may sometimes occur. Flushing of skin during the first few weeks of use is common. Seek immediate medical help if severe, but rare, allergic reactions such as hives, shortness of breath and swelling of face and lips occur.
Precautions
Always talk to a doctor before using niacin to determine whether it is right for you. Tell your doctor about your pre-existing conditions including diabetes. Most side effects go away in a few days, but consult your physician if the symptoms persist for more than two or three days.
References
- MedlinePlus; Niacin; March 2009
- "Nutrition Journal"; The Treatment of Migraines and Tension-Type Headaches With IntrWvenous and Oral Niacin (Nicotinic Acid): Systematic Review of the Literature; Jonathan Prousky, et al.; January 2005
- "Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine"; Two Case Reports on the Treatment of Acute Migraine With Niacin: Its Hypothetical Mechanism of Action Upon Calcitonin-Gene Related Peptide and Platelets; Jonathan E. Prousk, et al.; 2003
- "Mayo Clinic Proceedings"; Sustained-Release Niacin for Prevention of Migraine Headache; David A. Velling, et al.; June 2003
