Niacin Side Effects

Niacin is a B-vitamin that helps metabolize energy in the body and aids in DNA repair. Also called nicotinic acid or vitamin B3, it also lowers cholesterol levels and protects against diabetes, atherosclerosis, and osteoarthritis. Niacin deficiency causes indigestion, fatigue, canker sores, and in severe cases, a skin condition called pellagra. Common sources of niacin include beef liver and kidney, beets, fish, poultry, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and veal.

Niacin is also available in supplements, but these must be taken with care to avoid niacin side effects. Always consult your doctor before taking niacin, because some niacin side effects can aggravate existing conditions. Here are some common niacin side effects and how to avoid them.

1. Niacin flush

Niacin flush usually results from doses of 75 mg or more. It is characterized by red or “flushed” skin, and a burning sensation in the face and chest. Niacin flush is usually harmless, but it is uncomfortable and may interfere with daily activities. You can prevent niacin flush by taking aspirin 30 minutes before taking the niacin.

2. Liver damage

High doses of niacin can damage the liver and cause stomach ulcers. This is most common in patients taking niacin to treat diabetes and heart disease. In such case, doctors should do regular blood tests to monitor liver function. Avoid niacin supplements if you have gout, diabetes, gall bladder disease, or a history of stomach ulcers or liver disease, or at least consult your doctor before taking any.

3. Vitamin imbalance

Long-term niacin side effects include an imbalance of B-vitamins in the body. This can cause any of several deficiency-related conditions, ranging from simple rashes to heart arrhythmia and mental disorders. Always take a complex B-vitamin to maintain balance when taking niacin or other single B-vitamin.

4. Interaction with other medicines

Some medications can trigger or aggravate niacin side effects. Some may block the absorption of niacin, while others become less effective when combined with the vitamin. Inform your doctor if you are using antibiotics, aspirin, blood pressure and cholesterol reducers, nicotine patches, isoniazid, and diabetes medications.

IMPORTANT: Some niacin supplements contain extenders which may be harmful to your health, such as sugar, silica, starch, and gluten. To be safe, buy only niacin supplements that are GMP-compliant, which ensures that they pass strict safety standards and do not contain such chemicals. Make sure they do not contain additives such as artificial colors and flavors.

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