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Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Nicotinic Acid, Vitamin B3

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Meta Information

ID:niacin
Name:Niacin (Vitamin B3)
Schema Version:1.5

Title

Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Alternate Names

  • Nicotinic Acid
  • Vitamin B3

Intervention Type

therapeutic_agent

Expected Cost Mean

Low Cost:
5
High Cost:
20
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Widely available and inexpensive over-the-counter supplement.

Summary

Niacin (Vitamin B3) has historically been prescribed as a therapy to improve adverse lipid profiles by lowering LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while raising HDL. While its incremental benefit for cardiovascular events is now considered modest, interest has shifted to its role in healthspan optimization. This emerging use focuses on niacin's function as a direct precursor to NAD+, a vital coenzyme that supports cellular energy production and repair mechanisms that decline with age.

Purpose

Boosts NAD+ levels and improves lipid profiles for metabolic health.

Card Summary

A B-vitamin that acts as a precursor to the vital coenzyme NAD+, supporting cellular energy, DNA repair, and healthy cholesterol levels.

Drug Class

Drugs In Class

Empty Array

Impact

Score:
5.5
Justification:
Strongly supports NAD+ synthesis and lipid management, key healthspan pathways.

Evidence

Grade:
B
Score:
7.5
Justification:
Extensive human RCTs for lipid effects; emerging evidence for NAD+ related healthspan benefits.

Safety

Score:
4.2
Justification:
Generally safe but high doses can cause uncomfortable flushing and require liver monitoring.

Flags

  • The 'niacin flush' (intense redness, warmth, itching) is a common side effect of the nicotinic acid form.
  • High doses (>2g/day) can increase the risk of liver damage and require medical supervision.
  • May increase blood sugar levels, requiring caution for individuals with diabetes.
  • Can worsen gout by increasing uric acid levels.
  • May increase risk of myopathy when combined with statins.

Verdict

A cost-effective NAD+ precursor with proven benefits for lipid management.

Created

2026-04-23T23:47:18.530892Z

Model

Gemini 3.1 Pro (High)

Delivery

Route:
oral
Scope:
  • systemic

Indication

Focus:
  • disease_treatment
  • healthspan
Description:
Manages dyslipidemia, specifically elevating HDL cholesterol and lowering triglycerides and LDL. | Niacin is a B vitamin essential for metabolism and a direct precursor to NAD+, a critical coenzyme for cellular energy and repair processes that declines with age. Its primary healthspan relevance ste...

Typical Protocol

  • Daily doses of 500mg to 2000mg of nicotinic acid are common for lipid management.
  • Niacinamide (a no-flush form) is often used at similar doses for NAD+ precursor support.