Overview

Niacin is a B vitamin the body makes. The body uses niacin to turn food into energy. It helps keep the nervous system, digestive system, and skin healthy.

People may take niacin, also called vitamin B-3, as part of a daily multivitamin. But most people get enough niacin from the food they eat. Foods rich in niacin include yeast, milk, meat, and cereals.

Some people use prescription niacin (Niacor) to help manage cholesterol.

The suggested daily amount of niacin for adults assigned male at birth is 16 milligrams (mg) a day. For adults assigned female at birth who aren't pregnant, the dose is 14 mg a day.