From the FDA Drug Label
The recommended maintenance dose is 1000 mg (two 500 mg tablets or one 1000 mg tablet) to 2000 mg (two 1000 mg tablets or four 500 mg tablets) once daily at bedtime. Daily dose should not be increased by more than 500 mg in any 4–week period. Doses greater than 2000 mg daily are not recommended The recommended daily dosage of niacin is 1000 mg to 2000 mg once daily at bedtime 1.
- The dose should be individualized according to patient response and tolerance.
- Women may respond at lower doses than men.
- Doses above 2000 mg daily are not recommended.
From the Research
The recommended daily dosage of niacin for therapeutic purposes, such as treating high cholesterol, is 500-2000 mg daily, but this should only be taken under medical supervision due to potential side effects. For adults, the recommended daily dosage of niacin (vitamin B3) from food sources is 14-16 mg for men and 14 mg for women [ 2 ]. Pregnant women need 18 mg daily, while breastfeeding women require 17 mg. For children, the recommended amount varies by age:
- infants 0-12 months need 2-4 mg,
- children 1-3 years need 6 mg,
- 4-8 years need 8 mg, and
- 9-13 years need 12 mg. Teenagers 14-18 years require 16 mg for boys and 14 mg for girls [ 2 ]. These amounts refer to dietary niacin from food sources like meat, fish, nuts, and fortified cereals. Niacin is essential for converting food into energy and maintaining healthy skin, nervous system, and digestive function [ 3 ]. The body also produces some niacin from the amino acid tryptophan, which contributes to meeting daily requirements [ 4 ]. However, for therapeutic purposes, such as treating high cholesterol, much higher doses may be prescribed by healthcare providers, but these should only be taken under medical supervision as they can cause side effects like flushing, itching, and potential liver damage [ 5 ]. It is crucial to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider when considering niacin supplementation, especially at high doses, to minimize risks and maximize benefits [ 6 ]. In the context of treating hypertriglyceridemia, niacin, along with fibrates and long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, may be considered as therapeutic options, but the choice among these should be based on individual patient profiles and the specific benefits and risks associated with each treatment [ 3 ].