Vitamins & minerals
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Names you may see: niacin nicotinic acid niacinamide nicotinamide B3
The quick take
Niacin helps the body use energy from food and supports normal cellular processes.
A closer look
What forms will I see on a label?
Nicotinic acid and nicotinamide (niacinamide) differ in effects and tolerability. Do not treat high-dose formulations as interchangeable.
Why people use it
Niacin is included in B-complex and multivitamin products for normal energy metabolism. High-dose cholesterol treatment is a separate medical use, not a routine fitness goal.
These are common goals and marketing uses. The evidence section below explains what research supports.
What does the evidence tell us?
Prescription-style lipid treatment is different from meeting daily nutritional needs. High-dose use should be clinically supervised.
What should I know before using it?
Nicotinic acid can cause flushing. High supplemental doses can cause more serious effects, including liver problems.
Sources & further reading
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements ↗
Content reviewed: September 30, 2026
General educational information. Follow the product label and seek individual advice when needed.