How Niacin Is Used In The Body

Niacinamide, the form that is often used in the treatment of depression, is made from niacin. When the body has more niacin than it needs, it converts the left over amounts to niacinamide. Both are easily dissolved in water and are well-absorbed by the body when taken by mouth.
Both of these forms are required for the proper breakdown and absorption of fats and sugars in the body, and allows for the maintenance of healthy cells. Niacin and niacinamide can have different effects at high does. Niacin can help people with heart disease because of its effects on clotting. It also can improve the levels of triglycerides, a form of cholesterol, while niacinamide has no beneficial effect on these two factors.
Because it the many benefits and actions of niacin and niacinamide in the body, both of these forms have been used to treat conditions such as migraine headaches, dizziness, diabetes and some skin conditions.