Browse/Essential Vitamin
Essential Vitamin

Nicotinic Acid (Niacin)

01 / OVERVIEW

What this compound does

WHAT IT DOES

Nicotinic acid, or niacin, is a vitamin that helps your body convert food into energy. It supports healthy skin, nerves, and digestion, and can help maintain good cholesterol levels. Many people take it to feel more energetic and to support their overall health.

KEY BENEFITS
Supports healthy cholesterol levels
Promotes energy production
Aids in skin health
Contributes to nervous system function
BEST FOR
  • • Individuals looking to improve cholesterol levels
  • • People seeking increased energy
  • • Those wanting to support skin health
WHAT TO EXPECT

Users may start to notice effects within a few days to weeks, particularly in terms of energy levels and skin health. Some may experience a flushing sensation shortly after taking niacin.

WHO SHOULD AVOID THIS
  • • People with liver disease
  • • Individuals with peptic ulcers
  • • Those allergic to niacin
MYTHS & FACTS
Myth: Niacin is only for cholesterol management.
Fact: While niacin is known for its cholesterol-lowering effects, it also plays vital roles in energy metabolism and overall health.
Myth: All forms of niacin are the same.
Fact: There are different forms of niacin, including nicotinic acid and niacinamide, which have different effects and uses.
At a glance
Typical dose
15-1000 mg/day (flush-free: 500-2000mg)
Evidence
—
Studies indexed2
How it's made

Production details below.

03 / DOSAGE

How much, when

MAINTENANCE

15-1000 mg/day (flush-free: 500-2000mg)

with food; start low, titrate

TIMING

Nicotinic Acid (Niacin) — Morning dose

Take with food

02 / EVIDENCE

Peer-reviewed studies

  • PMID: 20040945

    HDL elevation

    Niacin is most effective agent for raising HDL cholesterol.

    A
  • PMID: 20040945

    Triglyceride reduction

    Significant triglyceride lowering at pharmacological doses (1–3g/day).

    A
  • PMID 37478182 · 2023Narrative Review

    What is really known about the effects of nicotinamide riboside supplementation in humans

    B
  • PMID 35235774 · 2022RCT

    The NADPARK study: A randomized phase I trial of nicotinamide riboside supplementation in Parkinson's disease

    B
  • PMID 27721479 · 2016Clinical Study

    Nicotinamide riboside is uniquely and orally bioavailable in mice and humans

    B
  • PMID 31278280 · 2019Safety Study

    Safety and Metabolism of Long-term Administration of NIAGEN (Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride) in a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial of Healthy Overweight Adults

    B
  • PMID 32383227 · 2021Mechanistic Study

    Possible mechanisms of cancer prevention by nicotinamide

    B
04 / INTERACTIONS

Medicine interactions

  • Warfarin· blood_thinner

    Niacin may enhance the effects of warfarin, increasing bleeding risk.

    → Monitor INR closely if niacin is added.

    MODERATE

  • Simvastatin· statin

    Niacin can increase the risk of muscle-related side effects when combined with statins.

    → Consider dose adjustments and monitor for muscle pain.

    MODERATE

  • Aspirin· pain reliever

    Aspirin may reduce flushing associated with niacin.

    → Taking a low dose of aspirin before niacin may help.

    LOW

This page is a reference summary, not a prescription. Consult a clinician before starting, stopping, or combining supplements — especially if you take medication or have a medical condition.