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What Are the Functions of Niacin?

Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is one of the vital nutrients humans need to thrive. Not only does niacin play several important functions in the body, but it also keeps people from contracting pellagra, which can lead to red sores on the skin, insomnia, paralysis, diarrhea, and, eventually, dementia and possibly death.

  1. Cholesterol Reduction

    • Niacin is often prescribed by doctors to help lower fatty chemicals and LDL, or "bad," cholesterol in your blood, while building HDL, or "good," cholesterol. If you're taking niacin for cholesterol reduction, you should complement the supplements with a diet low in cholesterol, fats and saturated oils.

    Treatment of Pellagra

    • Typically located in developing nations, patients suffering from the symptoms of pellagra receive an extended regimen of niacin supplements. While it can take several weeks for symptoms to disappear, depending on how long the symptoms have been present, niacin supplements will prevent the development of more dangerous symptoms.

    Precautions

    • Taking niacin can lead to several side effects, including tingling or itching of the skin or hot flashes. During your regimen, however, these should abate. You should not take niacin if you're allergic to nicotinic acid or have digestive ulcers, cirrhosis or open sores. If you have diabetes or gout, let your physician know before starting niacin. Taking niacin along with drugs containing colestipol or cholestyramine can be harmful. Take these drugs at least four hours before or after taking niacin to avoid a drug reaction.

    Dosage

    • You should take prescription niacin two or three times a day with a meal. If you're taking the extended-release form, take it at bedtime with a small snack. Usually, doctors will build the strength of the prescription up over time instead of starting at the full level.

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