Niacinamide (Oral Preparation)
What is Oral Niacinamide?
Oral niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that, when ingested, offers systemic benefits to the skin. In the realm of dermatology, its potential role in skin cancer prevention, especially for non-melanoma skin cancers like basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), has garnered interest.
How does Oral Niacinamide aid in skin cancer prevention?
Several mechanisms underline niacinamide's protective role:
DNA Repair: Post-UV exposure, niacinamide enhances the skin's ability to repair DNA, reducing the likelihood of mutations that may lead to cancer.
Immune System Enhancement: By bolstering the immune system's surveillance capabilities, niacinamide assists in the early detection and elimination of precancerous cells.
Research indicates that individuals at high risk, especially those with a history of non-melanoma skin cancers, might experience reduced recurrence rates with oral niacinamide supplementation.
What are possible side effects of Oral Niacinamide?
While oral niacinamide is generally well-tolerated, some individuals might experience:
Mild gastrointestinal symptoms
Dizziness
Rash
Severe reactions, although rare, can include:
Liver problems
Allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing or facial swelling
How is Oral Niacinamide used?
For potential skin cancer prevention, studies often recommend dosages ranging from 500 mg to 1000 mg taken twice daily. However, the precise dosage and regimen should always be determined and supervised by a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Precautions:
It's essential to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider before starting niacinamide supplementation, especially if taken for skin cancer prevention.
Regular monitoring might be necessary, especially if on a long-term regimen.
Inform the healthcare provider of any other medications or supplements being taken to avoid potential drug interactions.