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Vitamin

Niacin (as Nicotinamide)

Also known as: Vitamin B3, Nicotinamide, Nicotinic Acid, NAD+ Precursor

A
Evidence

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.

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Daily target & upper limit

16 mg / day · UL 35 mg

Niacin (as Nicotinamide) has an established daily reference intake. See best forms, label synonyms, upper-limit warnings, and top-scoring supplements:

Niacin (as Nicotinamide) dosage reference →

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

Products containing Niacin (as Nicotinamide)

Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Niacin (as Nicotinamide) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.

Thorne
Craving and Stress Support
96
Thorne
Niacinamide
96
Thorne
MediClear-SGS™ - Vanilla
95
Thorne
Basic Nutrients 2/Day
93
See all products →

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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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.