Niacinamide 500 mg
21st Century
Niacinamide 500 mg
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(3882 ratings)
Niacin 500 mg
Score 95.0
A high-potency, non-flushing niacinamide offering exceptional value, ideal for comfortable daily B3 supplementation across multiple health goals.
Quantity: 110 Tablet(s)Servings size: 1 Tablet(s) (110 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Heart Health
Skin Health
Energy
Metabolism Boost
leaderboard Score 95.0
A high-potency, non-flushing niacinamide offering exceptional value, ideal for comfortable daily B3 supplementation across multiple health goals.
insights Analysis
This Niacinamide product provides 500mg per serving, a substantial dose that actively participates in over 400 enzymatic reactions in the body, crucial for energy metabolism and cellular repair. Its primary advantage is being a non-flushing form, eliminating the uncomfortable redness and itching associated with traditional nicotinic acid, making it ideal for consistent daily use. This makes it particularly favored by nutritionists and online reviewers for general wellness and specific benefits like skin health, where the absence of flush is highly desirable.
- Non-flushing form (Niacinamide) ensures comfortable daily use without side effects.
- High 500mg dosage is effective for broad metabolic support and energy production.
- Extremely affordable price per serving offers outstanding value for a high-potency B3.
- Widely available from a common brand, making it easily accessible.
- Niacinamide does not have the same specific lipid-modifying effects (lowering LDL, raising HDL) as nicotinic acid, if that is the primary goal.
- While generally well-tolerated, very high doses may occasionally cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals.
$5.49($0.04 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 5.49 | |
 Pure Formulas | $ 6.45 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Niacin is known as one of the most effective agents for increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. It can significantly raise HDL, which is often considered beneficial for cardiovascular health. However, studies have shown that this increase in HDL does not always translate to a reduction in cardiovascular events.
While Niacin can contribute to lowering LDL cholesterol, its primary effect on lipids is typically a more significant reduction in triglycerides and an increase in HDL cholesterol. For LDL reduction, it is generally considered less potent than statins and often used in conjunction with other lipid-lowering therapies if prescribed.
Yes, Niacin is highly effective at reducing elevated triglyceride levels. It achieves this by decreasing the liver's production of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), which is a precursor to triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. This makes it a common consideration for individuals with hypertriglyceridemia.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is primarily recognized for its role in preventing and treating pellagra, a deficiency disease. In supplement form, it has been extensively studied for its effects on cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Its physiological functions include energy metabolism and DNA repair.
Niacin can be used in combination with statins to further improve lipid profiles, particularly to increase HDL and lower triglycerides. However, some studies have shown that adding Niacin to statin therapy does not consistently provide additional cardiovascular benefits and may increase the risk of side effects such as myopathy (muscle pain) when taken with certain statins. Medical supervision is essential for this combination.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Nicotinic acid is the form most commonly associated with the 'niacin flush' and is often used at higher doses for specific health support under medical supervision. Niacinamide (nicotinamide) generally does not cause flushing and is often preferred for general vitamin B3 supplementation, though it has different metabolic effects compared to nicotinic acid. Their applications can differ significantly.
'Flush-free' niacin, often inositol hexanicotinate, is a form where niacin is chemically bound to inositol, a sugar-like compound. This bond leads to a slow, gradual release of niacin in the body, significantly reducing or eliminating the rapid vasodilation that causes the common flushing sensation. It's often chosen by individuals sensitive to the flush.
To minimize the niacin flush from immediate-release nicotinic acid, individuals can start with a very low dose and gradually increase it over time. Taking it with a non-fatty meal, avoiding hot beverages or alcohol around the time of dosing, and potentially taking aspirin 30 minutes beforehand (if medically appropriate and advised) can also help. Slow and steady increases in dosage are key.
Immediate-release niacin (nicotinic acid) is absorbed quickly, leading to a rapid peak effect and often a pronounced, but temporary, flush. Extended-release forms are designed to release niacin slowly over several hours, which can help reduce the intensity and duration of the flush and may allow for less frequent dosing. The slower release aims to improve tolerance.
Niacin is available in several forms, including nicotinic acid (immediate-release and extended-release), niacinamide (nicotinamide), and inositol hexanicotinate (often marketed as 'no-flush' niacin). Each form has distinct properties and effects within the body. The choice of form can influence how it is absorbed and its potential side effects.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
The niacin flush is a common side effect characterized by redness, itching, warmth, and tingling, primarily on the face, neck, and chest. It is caused by the release of prostaglandins, which dilate blood vessels. Taking niacin with food, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it, or taking a low-dose aspirin before niacin may help reduce the flush.
High doses of niacin, particularly sustained-release forms, have been associated with elevated liver enzymes and, in rare cases, liver toxicity. Regular monitoring of liver function by a healthcare professional is often recommended when taking high-dose niacin. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions should avoid niacin unless specifically advised by a doctor.
Yes, niacin can interact with several medications. It may enhance the effects of blood pressure-lowering drugs, potentially causing hypotension, and can increase the risk of myopathy when taken with statins. Niacin might also interact with blood thinners, antidiabetic medications, and gout medications. Consulting a healthcare provider about all current medications before starting niacin is important.
Individuals with active liver disease, severe hypotension, active peptic ulcer disease, or active bleeding should generally avoid niacin supplements. Those with a history of gout, diabetes, or gallbladder disease should also use niacin with caution and under medical supervision. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine suitability.
High doses of niacin, particularly nicotinic acid, can sometimes increase blood glucose levels. This effect is more pronounced in individuals with diabetes or prediabetes. People managing their blood sugar should monitor their levels closely if taking niacin and discuss its use with a healthcare provider.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Niacinamide | 500 mg |
Calcium | 160 mg |
Categories
Niacin 95.0
This product represents a top-tier choice within the Niacin collection for general B3 supplementation, particularly for those seeking the benefits without the flushing side effect, offering high potency and exceptional value.
Goals
Skin Health 95.0
Niacinamide is widely recognized and clinically supported for its benefits to skin health, including reducing inflammation, improving barrier function, and potentially reducing acne and hyperpigmentation, all without causing the uncomfortable flush.
Energy 90.0
As a precursor to NAD+, Niacinamide is fundamental for cellular energy production by participating in numerous enzymatic reactions involved in converting food into usable energy. This makes it highly effective for supporting overall energy levels consistently.
Metabolism Boost 90.0
Niacinamide is a key component of coenzymes NAD+ and NADP+, which are essential for over 400 enzymatic reactions in the body involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, thereby significantly boosting overall metabolic function.
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