Vitamin B3 deficiency: the right clinical information, right where it's needed

Abstract

Vitamin B3, also referred to as niacin, is the generic term for nicotinic acid, its amide (nicotinamide or niacinamide), and their biologically active derivatives. It is also found in the form of the pyridine nucleotide coenzymes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH). These are essential in all cells for energy production, metabolism, and DNA repair. Severe deficiency results in pellagra, which is a combined deficiency of both niacin and its precursor, tryptophan. The symptoms of deficiency are primarily dermatitis, diarrhoea, and dementia. Death results if the condition is untreated.