Niacin vs. Niacinamide — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 7, 2024
Niacin is a form of Vitamin B3 that helps convert food into energy and supports nerve function, while niacinamide is a variant that provides similar benefits without causing the skin flushing often associated with niacin.
Difference Between Niacin and Niacinamide
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Niacin, or nicotinic acid, plays a crucial role in metabolism by converting carbohydrates into energy. It also aids in nerve health but can cause flushing as a side effect. Niacinamide, on the other hand, is an alternate form of Vitamin B3 that provides similar metabolic benefits while reducing the risk of skin flushing.
Niacin can be taken as a dietary supplement to help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Niacinamide, however, is less effective in managing cholesterol but is often preferred for its non-flushing properties.
Niacin is naturally found in foods like meat and grains and can be synthesized from tryptophan. Niacinamide is derived from niacin and can be produced synthetically or naturally.
Niacin is sometimes prescribed in higher doses to treat specific medical conditions but can cause liver toxicity if overused. Niacinamide is typically well-tolerated, even in higher doses, and is frequently used in skincare products for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Comparison Chart
Type
Nicotinic acid
Nicotinamide
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Side Effects
Flushing, liver toxicity
Fewer side effects
Cholesterol Benefits
Reduces LDL and increases HDL
Less effective for cholesterol
Synthesis
From tryptophan or diet
Derived from niacin
Skincare Usage
Limited
Anti-inflammatory, reduces acne
Compare with Definitions
Niacin
Used to lower cholesterol levels.
Niacin supplements helped reduce my LDL cholesterol.
Niacinamide
Often used in skincare products.
This moisturizer contains niacinamide to improve skin texture.
Niacin
A form of Vitamin B3 used in energy metabolism.
Niacin helps convert the carbohydrates in food into energy.
Niacinamide
Provides anti-inflammatory benefits for the skin.
Niacinamide is effective for reducing redness and inflammation.
Niacin
Also known as nicotinic acid, it's found in meat and grains.
Lean meats like chicken are rich in niacin.
Niacinamide
Can help manage acne due to its soothing properties.
My dermatologist recommended niacinamide for clearer skin.
Niacin
Causes flushing as a common side effect.
I felt a mild flush after taking niacin.
Niacinamide
Has fewer side effects than niacin.
Niacinamide doesn’t cause the flushing I experienced with niacin.
Niacin
An essential nutrient for nerve function.
The doctor recommended niacin to support my nerve health.
Niacinamide
A form of Vitamin B3 that aids in cellular energy production.
Niacinamide helps support energy production at the cellular level.
Niacin
Niacin, also known as nicotinic acid, is an organic compound and a form of vitamin B3, an essential human nutrient. It can be manufactured by plants and animals from the amino acid tryptophan.
Niacinamide
(organic compound) The amide of niacin.
Niacin
A white crystalline acid, C6H5NO2, of the vitamin B complex that is found in meat, fish, legumes, and whole-grain foods and is used to treat and prevent pellagra. Also called nicotinic acid.
Niacinamide
The amide of niacin (nicotinic acid), called also nicotinamide. It was at one time called vitamin B3, and can function to relieve nicotinic acid deficiency. Chemical formula C6H6N2O, chemically it is 3-pyridinecarboxamide.
Niacin
(vitamin) A water-soluble vitamin, a component of vitamin B complex, found in meat, yeast, and dairy products; it is essential to metabolism.
Niacin
A B vitamin (vitamin B5) essential for the normal function of the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. Called also nicotinic acid and antipellagra vitamin. Chemical formula C6H5NO2, chemically it is 3-pyridinecarboxylic acid.
Niacin
A B vitamin essential for the normal function of the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract
Common Curiosities
What is niacin used for?
Niacin is used for improving metabolism, reducing cholesterol levels, and supporting nerve health.
Is niacin or niacinamide better for cholesterol management?
Niacin is more effective for cholesterol management than niacinamide.
Can niacin cause any side effects?
Yes, high doses of niacin can cause flushing, nausea, and liver toxicity.
Is niacinamide effective for energy metabolism?
Yes, niacinamide supports cellular energy production.
How is niacinamide synthesized?
Niacinamide is derived from niacin or synthesized from tryptophan.
Does niacinamide lower cholesterol like niacin?
No, niacinamide is less effective than niacin in lowering cholesterol.
What makes niacinamide suitable for skincare?
Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, reduces redness, and improves skin texture.
How does niacin cause flushing?
Niacin dilates blood vessels, leading to a warm, reddening flush.
What is the difference between niacin and nicotinamide?
Niacin refers to nicotinic acid, whereas nicotinamide is the non-flushing variant often called niacinamide.
What are the benefits of niacinamide for acne?
Niacinamide reduces inflammation and redness, improving acne-prone skin.
Can niacin be obtained naturally from food?
Yes, niacin is found in foods like chicken, fish, and whole grains.
Can I take niacin and niacinamide together?
It's generally safe, but consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can niacin help with cognitive function?
Niacin plays a role in nerve health and may support cognitive function.
Does niacinamide have any side effects?
Niacinamide is usually well-tolerated, with minimal side effects.
Is niacinamide safe during pregnancy?
Yes, within recommended levels, niacinamide is generally considered safe.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
