What is Niacin?

Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in energy production and metabolism. It is one of the eight B vitamins and is required for the proper functioning of the body. Niacin is found in various foods, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement.

Niacin History

The discovery of niacin dates back to the early 19th century when it was found that a disease called pellagra was caused by a deficiency of a substance in corn. In the early 20th century, it was discovered that this substance was a B vitamin, which was later identified as niacin. Niacin was first synthesized in 1937, and since then, it has been used to treat various health conditions.

Niacin Chemistry

Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin that is part of the B complex vitamins. It is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H5NO2. It exists in two forms: nicotinic acid and nicotinamide (also known as niacinamide). Both forms are biologically active and can be converted into each other in the body. Nicotinic acid is the form of niacin that is most commonly used as a dietary supplement.

Niacin Pharmacology

Niacin plays a key role in the body's metabolism by helping to convert food into energy. It is also involved in the production of DNA and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Niacin is used therapeutically in high doses to lower cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the blood. It works by inhibiting the liver's production of cholesterol and increasing the breakdown of fats. Niacin is also used to treat pellagra, a disease caused by niacin deficiency.

Niacin Effects, including Niacin Flush

Niacin can cause a side effect known as niacin flush, which is characterized by a red, warm, and tingling sensation on the skin. This occurs because niacin causes blood vessels to dilate, resulting in increased blood flow to the skin. The niacin flush can be uncomfortable, but it is not harmful and usually goes away on its own within a few minutes to an hour.

Usage

Niacin can be taken as a dietary supplement in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquid. It is also found in various foods, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. The recommended daily intake of niacin for adults is 14-18 mg/day for women and 16-19 mg/day for men. However, higher doses of niacin may be required to treat certain health conditions, such as high cholesterol or pellagra.

Med Usage

Niacin is used therapeutically to treat high cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the blood. It is often used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins. Niacin is also used to treat pellagra, a disease caused by niacin deficiency.

Warnings

High doses of niacin can cause liver damage, so it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Niacin can also interact with other medications, including blood thinners and diabetes medications. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking niacin supplements.

References

1. Institute of Medicine (US) Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. National Academies Press (US); 1998.