Niacin, or vitamin B3, is commonly used to lower cholesterol and treat hyperlipidemia. It is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms.
However, while it can be effective, taking excessive amounts of niacin can lead to rare and severe side effects, including damage to the eyes.
A study from the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai highlights the risks of self-prescribing high doses of this vitamin, which in one case caused temporary blindness.
The research focused on a 61-year-old man who visited the hospital complaining of worsening blurry vision in both eyes. Over the course of a month, his vision had declined to the point where he was nearly legally blind. Tests revealed his best-corrected visual acuity was 20/150 in one eye and 20/100 in the other.
Initially, the patient told doctors about his history of high blood pressure and cholesterol but did not mention his extensive use of supplements.
Later, he admitted to taking between three and six grams of niacin daily for several months, believing it would reduce his risk of heart disease. He had purchased the supplement over the counter without realizing the potential risks to his eyesight.
Doctors explained that the standard niacin dosage for cholesterol management is between one and three grams daily, with six grams being the absolute maximum. However, such high doses are usually prescribed and closely monitored by healthcare professionals.
Over-the-counter niacin supplements, though widely available, are not recommended for self-treatment of serious conditions due to the lack of medical supervision.
Using advanced imaging technology, the medical team diagnosed the man with a rare toxic reaction known as niacin-induced cystoid maculopathy. This condition causes swelling in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision.
The high dose of niacin had caused fluid to accumulate in the macula, leading to blurry vision and other symptoms.
The good news was that the condition was reversible. Doctors advised the patient to stop taking the niacin immediately.
At a follow-up appointment one week later, his vision had already begun to improve. Within two months, the swelling and dysfunction had completely resolved, and his vision returned to 20/20.
This case serves as a warning about the risks of excessive supplement use. Just because vitamins are available without a prescription does not mean they are entirely safe, especially at high doses.
People who rely on clear vision for work or daily activities should be particularly cautious. Long-term damage to eyesight is a potential risk of overdosing on niacin or other supplements without proper medical guidance.
The researchers emphasized the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before using supplements to manage health conditions. Prescription medications are carefully dosed and monitored to balance effectiveness and safety, which is not guaranteed with over-the-counter options.
This study, led by Richard Rosen, was published in the Journal of VitreoRetinal Diseases. It underscores the need for caution when using supplements and highlights the value of medical supervision in preventing harmful side effects.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about the harm of vitamin D deficiency you need to know, and does eating potatoes increase your blood pressure?
For more information about health, please see recent studies about unhealthy habits that may increase high blood pressure risk, and results showing MIND diet may reduce risk of vision loss disease.
Copyright © 2024 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
