Summary
Highlights
New research suggests vitamin B3 could protect against glaucoma-related blindness. Dr. Tai introduces the potential of vitamin B3 (niacin) in glaucoma treatment.
Vitamin B3, or niacin, is a water-soluble B vitamin found in various forms like nicotinic acid and nicotinamide. It's naturally present in foods and available as a supplement. Nicotinamide is found in foods like fish, eggs, cereals, poultry, and nuts.
Glaucoma affects mitochondria in retinal ganglion cells,impairing their function. Vitamin B3 supports mitochondrial function, helping cells stay healthier and preventing vision loss by converting into nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD).
A 2019 study showed glaucoma patients had lower nicotinamide levels. A 2021 study found vitamin B3 and pyruvate supplements improved visual field results in glaucoma patients, potentially by rescuing injured but not dead optic nerve cells.
Several larger, long-term trials are ongoing to determine the long-term benefits of nicotinamide for glaucoma. Consult an ophthalmologist before taking vitamin B3. High doses carry risks like low blood pressure, insulin resistance, liver damage, and macular edema.
No adverse effects have been reported from naturally occurring niacin in foods. Increase vitamin B3 intake through diet (fish, nuts, poultry). Regular exercise helps maintain mitochondrial health.
Vitamin B3 supplementation will be an adjunct to, not a replacement for, glaucoma treatments prescribed by your eye doctor.