What is the recommended dosage for Nicotinamide?

General Skin Barrier: 500-1,500 mg/day; Skin Cancer Chemoprevention: 500 mg twice daily (1,000 mg/day total)

What are the side effects of Nicotinamide?

Potential side effects include: Generally well-tolerated (no flushing), Mild gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses, Rare hepatotoxicity at very high doses.

What is nicotinamide and how may it protect skin from cancer?

Nicotinamide (niacinamide, vitamin B3) enhances DNA repair in UV-damaged skin cells by replenishing cellular NAD+ levels depleted by UV exposure. The landmark ONTRAC trial demonstrated that 500 mg twice daily reduced new non-melanoma skin cancers by 23% in high-risk patients. This is one of the best-evidenced cancer-preventive supplements available.

What dosage of nicotinamide has been studied for skin cancer prevention?

The ONTRAC trial used 500 mg of nicotinamide twice daily (1,000 mg/day) for 12 months in patients with a history of non-melanoma skin cancer. Benefits were observed during the supplementation period but disappeared within 6 months of cessation. Continuous supplementation may be needed for ongoing protection.

What are the potential side effects of nicotinamide for skin protection?

Nicotinamide at 1,000 mg daily is generally well tolerated and does not cause the flushing associated with niacin. Mild gastrointestinal effects may occur. Very high doses (above 3,000 mg daily) may cause liver toxicity. Nicotinamide does not replace sun protection measures including sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak UV hours.

Nicotinamide

specialty

Also known as: Nicotinamide (high-dose oral), Vitamin B3 (oral oncology dose)

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About

Nicotinamide at chemoprevention doses replenishes cellular NAD+ depleted by UV-induced PARP activation, enhancing cellular energy for DNA repair. The landmark ONTRAC trial (386 patients, NEJM 2015) found nicotinamide 500 mg twice daily reduced new nonmelanoma skin cancers by 23% and actinic keratoses by 11% in high-risk individuals.

How It Works

Amide form of vitamin B3 (distinct from niacinamide in dosing context); replenishes cellular NAD+ depleted by UV-induced PARP activation; enhances cellular energy for DNA repair; supports immune surveillance of skin cancer precursors; strengthens skin barrier ceramide synthesis.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
UV Protection (Internal Photoprotection)	A	5	686	View →

Side Effects

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

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine — may increase levels)
Isoniazid (competes for NAD+ pathways)
Hepatotoxic drugs (potential additive liver effect at high doses)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

MSM Pine Bark Extract (Pycnogenol) Polypodium leucotomos

Quick Facts

Dosage: General_Skin_Barrier: 500-1,500 mg/day; Skin_Cancer_Chemoprevention: 500 mg twice daily (1,000 mg/day total)
Forms: tablet capsule
Natural Sources: Poultry, Fish, Mushrooms, Peanuts (oncology doses require supplementation)
Upper Limit: Generally well-tolerated up to 3,000 mg/day (no flushing unlike niacin)
Best Time: With meals; split into 2 doses for chemoprevention

Evidence Summary

UV Protection (Internal Photoprotection) A

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.