Nicotinamide, also known as vitamin B3, occurs naturally in the body during the processing of niacin. It provides health benefits, including helping with skin conditions, reducing anxiety symptoms, and potentially aiding in Alzheimer’s and depression treatment. Nicotinamide supplements do not cause the flush common with niacin supplements, but it is important to consult a doctor before choosing one over the other.
Also known as niacinamide or nicotinic acid amide, nicotinamide is the amide portion of vitamin B3 or niacin. The substance occurs naturally in the body during the processing of niacin, although synthetically produced niacinamide can now be purchased at most health food stores. Many people prefer the use of nicotinamide supplements, as they do not cause the flush common with the use of niacin supplements.
Various forms of niacinamide are created in the body as niacin is absorbed into cells. Forms such as nicotinamide dinucleotide and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate occur naturally in the body and help provide a number of health benefits, including helping with various types of skin conditions. Many products formulated to help treat acne and other skin problems will include niacinamide. Various types of sunscreens are also likely to include this form of B3 in their formulas.
Another health benefit often associated with nicotinamide has to do with the treatment of anxiety. When consumed in significant quantities, this form of B3 can help reduce many of the symptoms commonly experienced by people suffering from anxiety and panic disorder. The vitamin can help reduce the overall feeling of agitation, help a racing mind calm down, and has even been shown to aid in recovery from a panic attack. While the vitamin is water soluble, it is still possible to ingest toxic amounts in a short period of time. Generally, up to one to two grams per day is considered within safe limits. Anything over two grams should only be taken under the guidance of a doctor.
It is important to note that nicotinamide does not contain all of the health benefits that come with ingesting niacin. For example, this form of B3 lacks the cholesterol-lowering properties of niacin. Niacinamide is also much less likely to help with gastrointestinal issues. While many people prefer this product over niacin because it doesn’t cause the flushing sensation common with taking larger doses of undiluted B3, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor before choosing nicotinamide over niacin. This will ensure that the supplement addresses the relevant health issues and that a niacin supplement is no longer effective.
Further testing of the benefits of nicotinamide supplementation indicates that this form of B3 may be beneficial in helping patients with Alzheimer’s disease, as the supplement may enhance the patient’s ability to regain some sense of cognition. The supplement may also help restore a more balanced state of mind for people suffering from depression. However, at present both of these applications are still under investigation and should not be considered established treatments for any of these conditions.
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