Niacin 500 mg
NOW
Niacin 500 mg
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(8550 ratings)
Niacin 500 mg
Score 75.0
A high-potency nicotinic acid from a trusted brand, effective for heart health but causes a common, uncomfortable flush.
Quantity: 100 Capsule(s)Servings size: 1 Capsule(s) (100 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Heart Health
Skin Health
Energy
Metabolism Boost
leaderboard Score 75.0
A high-potency nicotinic acid from a trusted brand, effective for heart health but causes a common, uncomfortable flush.
insights Analysis
NOW Niacin 500 mg provides a high dose of nicotinic acid, a form of Vitamin B3 particularly noted for its powerful effects on lipid profiles, including lowering LDL cholesterol and raising HDL cholesterol. This makes it a strong contender for heart health support when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional. Nonetheless, users must be prepared for the characteristic niacin flush, which can range from mild discomfort to intense itching and redness. While beneficial for metabolic processes and energy production, the flush often leads individuals to seek out non-flushing forms like niacinamide for these more general benefits.
- High potency (500mg) is effective for specific therapeutic uses like cholesterol management.
- Produced by NOW, a widely recognized and trusted brand in the supplement industry.
- High review count suggests popularity and general user satisfaction (despite flush).
- Causes the 'niacin flush' (redness, itching, tingling), which can be uncomfortable and lead to non-compliance.
- Not ideal for individuals seeking general B3 benefits without side effects, or for skin health where niacinamide is preferred.
- Requires careful titration of dosage to minimize flushing for some users.
$6.19($0.06 per serving)
 Vitacost | $ 6.19 | |
 Daily Vita | $ 6.40 | |
 iHerb | $ 6.72 |
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 |
|---|---|
Niacin | 500 mg |
Categories
Niacin 80.0
As a pure Niacin product, it delivers the intended benefits of Vitamin B3. The choice between this flushing form and non-flushing alternatives depends on individual tolerance and specific health goals, as it represents the classic, most studied form for lipid modification.
Goals
Heart Health 90.0
Nicotinic acid at 500mg is clinically supported for its efficacy in improving lipid profiles, specifically lowering LDL and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol, making it highly beneficial for cardiovascular health when tolerated and used under guidance.
Metabolism Boost 80.0
Niacin plays an indispensable role in over 400 enzymatic reactions involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This direct involvement makes it effective for supporting and enhancing overall metabolic function within the body.
Energy 75.0
Niacin is crucial for converting food into usable cellular energy by acting as a coenzyme in vital metabolic pathways. This product effectively supports energy production, though the immediate flush can sometimes overshadow its sustained metabolic benefits.
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From the same trusted brand, this Niacinamide form offers the same high dosage (500mg) without the flushing, providing excellent value for those prioritizing comfort and general B3 benefits over the specific lipid-modifying effects of nicotinic acid.
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