One form of vitamin B3 is niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide. A number of experimental studies have reported that niacinamide has the effect of decreasing or reversing cognitive impairment such as memory loss in animals. Alzheimer's disease is characterized by progressive memory loss and scientists are interested in niacinamide as a potential treatment product. Speak to your doctor before taking a niacinamide supplement.
Scientific Research
In 2004, the journal "Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior" reported on a study in which memory loss and impaired brain function were chemically induced in mice. The mice were then subjected to memory and behavioral tests. Researchers noted that mice given nicotinamide -- or niacinamide -- two hours after being injected with the chemical product showed less memory loss and learning impairment than the control group.
Supporting Evidence
A 2008 study published in "The Journal of Neuroscience" looked at the effect of nicotinamide on the cognitive behavior of mice that had been bred to have Alzheimer's-like brain dysfunction. These mice were tested on the Morris Water Maze, a spacial task, with niacinamide treatment throughout. Mice receiving niacinamide finished the task in four days, compared to six days for those not receiving the supplement. Short-term memory was tested 1.5 hours after completion of the task, and long-term memory 24 hours after completion. Mice getting niacinamide had a significant increase in both long- and short-term memory when compared to non-supplemented ones. Researchers noted that this phenomenon was also present in mice that were not bred to show dementia, leading them to conclude that oral niacinamide may be beneficial for increasing short-term memory in a general animal model.
Niacinamide's Mechanism of Action
Thr231-phosphotau is an Alzheimer's disease biomarker. "Tau" is a group of proteins that have been implicated in abnormal deposits in the brain that lead to the progressive brain damage seen in Alzheimer's patients. Niacinamide reduces Thr231-phosphotau, which prevents damage, thus decreasing memory loss.
Choose Supplements Carefully
Niacinamide supplements are widely available, but you should pay close attention to the label of your vitamin B3 container. Niacinamide and niacin have different effects on the body, and the side effects are different as well. Be sure that your product is niacinamide if you choose to try it for its effect on memory. Keep in mind, however, that the scientific evidence supporting the use of niacinamide for memory impairment is experimental and needs to be confirmed with clinical trials. Do not take supplements without first consulting your doctor.
