Indications
Niacinamide (also called nicotinamide) is a form of vitamin B3. By mouth, it is used to prevent and treat vitamin B3 deficiency, including pellagra (a condition with rough, darkened skin in sun-exposed areas, diarrhoea and confusion), and it is a common part of B-complex and multivitamin products. On the skin, creams, gels and serums containing niacinamide are used for acne, redness, uneven skin tone and dark patches, and to support a healthy skin barrier. Unlike Niacin (nicotinic acid), niacinamide does not cause flushing and is not used to lower cholesterol.
How It Works
In the body, niacinamide is turned into NAD and NADP, helper molecules that cells need to make energy and repair themselves. On the skin, it helps the skin make its own protective fats (ceramides), calms inflammation and reduces the transfer of pigment that causes dark spots.
Dosage and Administration
- Supplement: follow the product label or the doctor’s advice; multivitamin products usually contain a small daily amount.
- Pellagra and proven deficiency in adults: commonly around 300 mg a day in divided doses for a few weeks, as prescribed.
- Children and higher doses for other conditions: only as prescribed.
- Skin products (usually 2% to 5%): apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin once or twice a day. Start once a day if your skin is sensitive. Use sunscreen during the day.
Interactions
At normal doses, interactions are uncommon. High doses by mouth may raise blood levels of Carbamazepine and Primidone. Skin products can generally be used with other skin care, though using many strong active products together may irritate the skin.
Contraindications
- Allergy to niacinamide or any ingredient of the product.
- High doses by mouth should not be used in active liver disease.
Side Effects
By mouth at normal doses, side effects are rare; occasionally nausea, stomach upset or diarrhoea. Very high doses (several grams a day) can affect the liver. On the skin, mild redness, stinging, itching or dryness can happen, mostly when starting.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction (swelling of the face or throat, widespread rash, difficulty breathing), or yellowing of the skin or eyes and dark urine while taking high doses.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Amounts found in food and standard multivitamins are safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use high-dose supplements only on a doctor’s advice. Skin products are generally considered safe to use; ask your doctor if you are unsure.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not take high doses for a long time without medical supervision, especially if you have liver disease. Check the total amount if you take more than one vitamin product. For skin products, try a small area first, avoid the eyes and broken skin, and stop if irritation is severe.
Overdose
Very high doses by mouth can cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and liver problems. Seek medical advice. Swallowing a skin product by accident is unlikely to be serious, but contact a doctor if a child swallows a large amount.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin B3 (water-soluble vitamin); topical skin care agent.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Close skin products tightly after use.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.