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Nicotinamide for UV Protection (Internal Photoprotection)

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At chemoprevention doses (1,000 mg/day), oral nicotinamide replenishes UV-depleted NAD+ stores, enhancing cellular energy for DNA repair and supporting immune surveillance of UV-damaged cells (ONTRAC Phase 3 trial).

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The Bottom Line

            
            
At chemoprevention doses (1,000 mg/day), oral nicotinamide replenishes UV-depleted NAD+ stores, enhancing cellular energy for DNA repair and supporting immune surveillance of UV-damaged cells (ONTRAC Phase 3 trial).

            
            
        

    











    
    

        
        

            

  
Key Statistics





            


    

        
5

        
Studies

    

    

        
686

        
Participants

    

    

        
            
            ↑
            
        
        
Positive

    

    

        A

        
Grade

    




        


        
        

        
        
        

            

  
Dosage & Usage





            
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units


            
            

                
Commonly Used Dosages

                

                    
                    

                        
generalskinbarrier:

                        
500-1,500 mg/day

                    

                    
                    

                        
skincancerchemoprevention:

                        
500 mg twice daily (1,000 mg/day total)

                    

                    
                

                
                

                    Upper limit: Generally well-tolerated up to 3,000 mg/day (no flushing unlike niacin)
                

                
            

            

            

            
            

                Best taken: With meals; split into 2 doses for chemoprevention
            

            
        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Safety & Side Effects





            

                
                

                    
Reported Side Effects

                    
    
                        
                        
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                            Generally well-tolerated (no flushing)
                        
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                            Mild gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses
                        
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                            Rare hepatotoxicity at very high doses
                        
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Known Interactions

                    
    
                        
                        
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                            ●
                            Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine — may increase levels)
                        
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                            Isoniazid (competes for NAD+ pathways)
                        
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                            Hepatotoxic drugs (potential additive liver effect at high doses)
                        
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                        Tolerable upper intake: Generally well-tolerated up to 3,000 mg/day (no flushing unlike niacin)
                    

                

                
            

            

                Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
            

        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Frequently Asked Questions





            




    
    

        
            Does Nicotinamide help with UV Protection (Internal Photoprotection)?
            
        
        

            Based on 5 studies with 686 participants, there is strong evidence from multiple clinical trials that Nicotinamide may support UV Protection (Internal Photoprotection) management. Our evidence grade is A (Strong Evidence).
        

    

    
    

        
            How much Nicotinamide should I take for UV Protection (Internal Photoprotection)?
            
        
        

            Studies have used various dosages. A commonly studied range is 500-1,500 mg/day. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
        

    

    
    

        
            Are there side effects of Nicotinamide?
            
        
        

            Reported side effects may include Generally well-tolerated (no flushing), Mild gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses, Rare hepatotoxicity at very high doses. Most side effects are mild and dose-dependent. Consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
        

    

    
    

        
            How strong is the evidence for Nicotinamide and UV Protection (Internal Photoprotection)?
            
        
        

            We rate the evidence as Grade A (Strong Evidence). This rating is based on 5 peer-reviewed studies with 686 total participants. The overall direction of effect is positive.
        

    

    




        

        

        
        
        

            

  
Related Evidence





            

                
                
                

                
            

        

        

    


    
    












    

        FDA Disclaimer:
        These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.