Vitamin
Niacin (as Nicotinamide)
Also known as: Vitamin B3, Nicotinamide, Nicotinic Acid, NAD+ Precursor
An essential B vitamin that serves as a coenzyme precursor for NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), critical for energy metabolism and cellular repair. Supports cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and DNA stability.
Primary uses
- Energy metabolism
- NAD+ synthesis
- Cardiovascular health
- DNA repair support
How it works
- NAD+ coenzyme production
- Energy metabolism (glycolysis, citric acid cycle)
- DNA repair and stress response
- Sirtuin activation support
Dosage
- Typical range
- 14–16 mg daily (RDA); up to 35 mg daily (safe upper limit)
- Timing
- With meals to reduce flushing
- With food
- Recommended to minimize GI upset
- Duration
- Safe for long-term daily use
- Special populations
- Nicotinic acid form may cause flushing; nicotinamide does not; use caution in gout or liver disease
Forms
- Nicotinamide· 70/100
- Nicotinic acid· 70/100
- Niacinamide· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Flushing (with nicotinic acid form, not nicotinamide)
- Nausea
- GI upset at high doses
Contraindications
- Gout
- Severe liver disease
- Peptic ulcer disease
Evidence notes
Strong RCT evidence for cardiovascular effects; well-established metabolic role. RDA = 14–16 mg daily.
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
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