What is Niacin?
Niacin is a B complex vitamin found in a many foods such as liver, poultry, fish, nuts and dried beans. It is needed for the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract function. Vitamin B3 is made up of niacin (nicotinic acid) and niacinamide.
Side Effects
Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) anxiety, blood clotting, blurred vision, change in insulin levels, decreased thyroid function (hypothyroidism), dental pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dizziness, dry skin, fluid in the abdomen/liver inflammation (ascites), gout, headache, increased blood sugar, increased homocysteine levels (may increase risk of heart disease), increased risk of bleeding, increased uric acid levels, increase in blood levels of creatine kinase (indicator of muscle damag...
Reactions / Interactions
Drugs used to treat seizures, diazepam, thyroid drugs, antioxidants, nicotine, drugs used to lower cholesterol, drugs used to control blood sugar levels, antibiotics, antifungals, drugs that increase bleeding risk, hormonal drugs, birth control pills, alcohol, and herbs or supplements with similar effects.
What is Niacin?
Niacin is a B complex vitamin found in a many foods such as liver, poultry, fish, nuts and dried beans. It is needed for the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract function. Vitamin B3 is made up of niacin (nicotinic acid) and niacinamide.
Side Effects
Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) anxiety, blood clotting, blurred vision, change in insulin levels, decreased thyroid function (hypothyroidism), dental pain, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, dizziness, dry skin, fluid in the abdomen/liver inflammation (ascites), gout, headache, increased blood sugar, increased homocysteine levels (may increase risk of heart disease), increased risk of bleeding, increased uric acid levels, increase in blood levels of creatine kinase (indicator of muscle damage), increase in blood eosinophils, itching, "lazy eye" (toxic amblyopia), liver toxicity/failure, low white blood cell count (leukopenia), low blood pressure, macular swelling, mild stomach upset, nausea, niacin-induced muscle cell damage (myopathy), palpitations, panic attacks, rash (pruritis), severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock), skin flushing, skin yellowing (jaundice), tooth or gum pain, vomiting, warm sensation, worsening of stomach ulcers.
Reactions / Interactions
Drugs used to treat seizures, diazepam, thyroid drugs, antioxidants, nicotine, drugs used to lower cholesterol, drugs used to control blood sugar levels, antibiotics, antifungals, drugs that increase bleeding risk, hormonal drugs, birth control pills, alcohol, and herbs or supplements with similar effects.
Safety
Avoid niacin/vitamin B3 if allergic to niacin or niacinamide. Avoid if history of liver disease or dysfunction, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia), heart disease, blood clotting, bleeding disorders, asthma, anxiety, panic attacks, thyroid disorders, stomach ulcers, gout or diabetes. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dosage
Recommended daily doses range from 16-35 milligrams. Taking niacin supplements with food may reduce the likelihood of stomach upset. Doses are usually started low and increased slowly to minimize flushing, although aspirin or ibuprofen may reduce the flushing adverse effect.
Adults (18 years and older)
300-3000 milligrams of immediate-release (crystalline) niacin daily (divided into 2-3 doses); 500-2000 milligrams of sustained-release niacin. Doses are usually started lower and increased gradually.
Children (18 years and younger)
Not enough scientific data available.
Evidence
Condition: High cholesterol Grade: A
Condition: Pellagra Grade: A
Condition: Atherosclerosis Grade: B
Condition: Prevention of heart attack reoccurrence Grade: B
Condition: Alzheimer's disease, cognitive decline Grade: C
Condition: Osteoarthritis (niacinamide) Grade: C
Disclaimer: These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
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While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy. The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.