đź§  Why might niacin be of interest in osteoarthritis?


Although niacin is not included in official protocols for the treatment of arthrosis, its properties are of interest to researchers and practicing doctors.

Here’s why:


🔥 Anti-inflammatory effect
Niacinamide is able to reduce the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines – substances that trigger inflammation and destroy cartilage. This is especially important in osteoarthritis, where chronic inflammation plays a key role.


🛡️ Antioxidant properties
Oxidative stress is one of the factors of aging and destruction of joint tissue. Niacin helps neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from damage.


đź’§ Improved microcirculation
Nicotinic acid dilates blood vessels, improving blood flow to the joints. This can contribute to better nutrition of cartilage tissue and accelerated recovery.


đź§± Possible Effects on Cartilage
Some evidence suggests that niacinamide may slow down cartilage degradation and even stimulate its restoration, but this is still a hypothesis that requires confirmation.


📊 What do the studies say?
There are few studies on niacin and osteoarthritis, but they do exist, and they are encouraging.
A 1996 study from the University of California found that taking niacinamide at a dose of 3 g / day for 12 weeks led to:
Reduction in pain
Improved joint mobility
Reduced need for NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
Other small studies have noted an improvement in overall well-being and a decrease in inflammatory markers.


But it is important to understand:
📉 These data are preliminary
đź§Ş Large randomized trials have not yet been conducted
📚 Niacin is not included in official recommendations for the treatment of osteoarthritis
Therefore, it is premature to talk about it as a “medicine”. But as a promising nutrient, it is quite possible.


🩺 If you decide to take niacin for osteoarthritis
Before you run to the pharmacy – stop. Niacin, although a vitamin, is not a harmless supplement, especially in therapeutic doses. If you are seriously considering it as part of your support for osteoarthritis, be sure to discuss this with your doctor.


Why is this important:
👨‍⚕️ The doctor will prescribe blood tests to monitor:
Liver enzymes (ALT, AST)
Sugar levels
Lipid profile (C, LDL, HDL)
General blood test
⚠️ Side effects:
Hot flashes, skin redness
Itching, headache
Gastrointestinal disorders
Increased sugar
Hepatotoxicity (with prolonged use of high doses)


đź’Š Approximate dosages (prescribed by the doctor):
Form: Niacinamide, Nicotinic acid
Purpose: Joint support
Dosage 500–1500 mg 2–3 times a day

Improved blood circulation
250–500 mg 1–2 times a day (less commonly used for arthrosis)

⚠️ Important: therapeutic doses are several times higher than the daily norm (about 15-20 mg). Therefore, self-medication is unacceptable.
And most importantly, niacin does not replace the main treatment. It can be part of a comprehensive approach, but only in tandem with a doctor, and not instead of him.


âś… Conclusion
Osteoarthritis is not a death sentence, but it requires a comprehensive approach. Niacin is not a magic pill, but perhaps a step in the right direction. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it an interesting candidate for joint support.
If you want to try it, do it consciously and under the supervision of a doctor. And we, like science, continue to look for solutions that will help you live more actively, freely and without pain.

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