We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Nicotinamide?

Malcolm Tatum
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 21,310
Share

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 as niacin is processed, although it is now possible to purchase synthetically produced niacinamide at most health food stores. Many people prefer the use of nicotinamide supplements, as they do not cause the flushing that is common with the use of niacin supplements.

In the body, various forms of niacinamide are created as niacin is absorbed into the cells. Forms such as nicotinamide dinucleotide and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate naturally occur in the body and help to provide a number of health benefits, including help with various types of skin conditions. Many products formulated to aid in the treatment of 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 amounts, this form of B3 can help lessen many of the symptoms commonly experienced by people who suffer with anxiety and panic disorder. The vitamin may help reduce the general feeling of unrest, help a racing mind to calm down, and has even proven to help aid in the 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, as much as one to two grams per day is considered to be within safe limits. Anything above two grams should only be taken under the guidance of a physician.

It is important to note that nicotinamide does not contain all the health benefits that come with ingesting niacin. For example, this form of B3 does not have the cholesterol-fighting properties of niacin. Niacinamide is also much less likely to help with gastrointestinal issues. While many people prefer this product rather than niacin because it does not cause the flushing sensation common to taking larger doses of undiluted B3, it is a good idea to consult a physician before choosing nicotinamide over niacin. This will ensure that the supplement will address the relevant health issues, and that a niacin supplement would not be more effective.

Further testing on the benefits of nicotinamide supplementation indicates this form of B3 may be helpful in aiding patients with Alzheimer’s Disease, in that the supplement may increase the ability of the patient to regain some sense of cognition. The supplement may also help restore a more balanced frame of mind to people suffering with depression. However, at present both these applications are still being investigated and should not be considered established treatments for either of these conditions.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGeek, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By SimpleByte — On Jan 08, 2014
@Ceptorbi: Yes, nicotinamide supplements can sometimes cause side effects. Some people, for example, may experience allergic reactions with rashes, itching, dizziness, and/or difficulty breathing. Anyone experiencing allergic symptoms should seek immediate medical attention. Other possible side effects from this supplement can include gastrointestinal problems like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Headache, dizziness, and blurred vision could also result from nicotinamide supplements, and diabetics need to know that nicotinamide can cause elevated blood sugar levels.
By Ceptorbi — On Jan 07, 2014

I'm glad nicotinamide doesn't cause skin flushing like niacin sometimes does, but do nicotinamide supplements have any other side effects?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-nicotinamide.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.