Does Niacin Cause Extreme Joint & Muscle Pain?

Niacin is also known as Vitamin B3. It is a vitamin used by the body to convert carbohydrates into energy. It is frequently used to raise good cholesterol levels. Niacin is found in most daily vitamins. Most side effects are mild and toxicity is rare but may occur. Joint and muscle pain have been reported.

Significance

• Niacin is important in keeping the nervous system working properly and for a body's digestive health. It also promotes healthy eyes, skin, hair and nails.

Considerations

• Niacin has been shown to work on cholesterol levels. Much attention has be given to lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL), but little has focused on raising the good (HDL), which niacin does.

Warning

• The most predominate side effect of taking too much niacin is flushing of the skin. Doses of 75 mg or more can dilate the blood vessel and cause temporary skin redness, itching and/or rashes in some people which usually lasts for 20 to 30 minutes.

Adverse Side Effects

• Some adverse side effects of taking to much niacin include an upset stomach, diarrhea, bloating, gas and a sudden drop of blood pressure. Niacin thresholds vary and some people may tolerate higher levels than others.

Rare Side Effects

• Rare side effects of niacin include pain in the muscles and joints, scaly skin, excessive pigmentation, blurry vision, ulcers, liver problems and jaundice. Overdosing of niacin is not fatal, but symptoms can be uncomfortable.

Joint and Muscle Pain

• While not frequent or common joint and muscle pain has been reported by person taking niacin. Also, swelling, tenderness and muscle weakness may occur. These symptoms have been associated with niacinamide (used to treat niacin deficiency).