Vitamins & minerals

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

Provides building blocks for NAD and NADP, which participate in cellular energy reactions.

Updated September 17, 2026 · Educational reference

What it does

Provides building blocks for NAD and NADP, which participate in cellular energy reactions.

Possible deficiency symptoms

Severe deficiency causes pellagra, which can involve skin, digestive and neurological symptoms.

Food sources

Poultry; fish; meat; peanuts; enriched grains.

Supplement forms

Nicotinic acid and nicotinamide (niacinamide).

Before taking a supplement

High-dose niacin can harm the liver and affect glucose. Cholesterol treatment doses require medical supervision.

Questions for your visit

Could my diet, medicines, absorption or another condition explain my concern? What evidence would support treatment, and how would we check whether it helps?

Names you may see

Vitamin B3 (Niacin) · Niacin

Sources & perspective

This is an editorial adaptation of the Purser Wellness nutrient reference app. Purser teaching connections are labeled separately from clinical interpretation. Private cases and individual treatment protocols are not reproduced.

Use the public resources below for additional context.

NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

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