Evidence supporting the use of: Niacin (vitamin B3)
For the health condition: Migraine

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Niacin (vitamin B3) has a history of traditional use in the support and management of migraines, though robust clinical scientific evidence is sparse. The traditional rationale stems from niacin’s vasodilatory effects, as it can cause the blood vessels to widen, leading to the characteristic “niacin flush.” Early anecdotal reports and small case series from the mid-20th century suggested that high doses of niacin, administered orally or sometimes intravenously, could abort migraine attacks or reduce their frequency. Some practitioners hypothesized that migraines are related to vascular constriction, and therefore, niacin’s vasodilatory properties could provide relief. These reports, however, were not substantiated by large, well-designed clinical trials. A few small studies and case reports have continued to emerge over the years, but they often lack rigorous methodology, use small sample sizes, or do not include appropriate controls or blinding. No major medical guidelines recommend niacin for migraine prevention or treatment, and systematic reviews do not support its efficacy based on currently available data. Most of the evidence supporting its use is therefore historical or anecdotal rather than scientific. While niacin is generally safe at recommended dietary levels, high-dose supplementation to achieve a therapeutic effect can cause side effects such as flushing, gastrointestinal upset, liver toxicity, and other adverse effects, which limits its practical use. In summary, while there is a traditional and anecdotal basis for niacin’s use in migraine, high-quality scientific validation is lacking.

More about niacin (vitamin B3)
More about Migraine

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