Indications
Nicotinamide (also called niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3) is used to prevent and treat vitamin B3 deficiency, including pellagra, which causes a rough rash on sun-exposed skin, diarrhoea and confusion. It is a common part of B-complex and multivitamin products. As a gel or cream applied to the skin, it is used for mild to moderate acne.
How It Works
Nicotinamide is turned into substances (NAD and NADP) that the body’s cells need to make energy and repair themselves. On the skin it calms inflammation and helps the skin barrier. Unlike Nicotinic Acid, it does not cause flushing and is not used to lower cholesterol.
Dosage and Administration
- As a supplement: the amount in the B-complex or multivitamin product, usually once a day.
- Pellagra and other deficiency: as prescribed.
- Acne gel or cream: apply a thin layer to the affected skin once or twice a day, or as directed on the pack.
- Children: as prescribed.
Tablets can be taken with food.
Interactions
No important interactions are known at normal supplement doses. High doses may raise blood levels of Carbamazepine and Primidone.
Contraindications
- Allergy to nicotinamide or any ingredient of the product.
- High doses should be avoided in people with active liver disease.
Side Effects
At normal doses it is usually well tolerated. Tablets may occasionally cause nausea, stomach upset or diarrhoea. Gel may cause dryness, mild burning or redness of the skin. Very high doses taken for a long time can harm the liver. Get urgent medical help if you notice yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Safe at normal recommended amounts during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid high doses unless a doctor advises them. The skin gel is generally considered safe; ask a doctor before use.
Precautions and Warnings
Do not take high doses for a long time without medical advice, especially if you have liver disease, diabetes, gout or a stomach ulcer. Keep the gel away from the eyes and mouth.
Overdose
A large single dose may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness or stomach upset. Long-term high doses may affect the liver. Seek medical advice if a large amount has been taken.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin B (water-soluble vitamin); topical anti-acne preparation.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.