Synopsis

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

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) has been used traditionally to support and treat migraine, though scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited and of low quality. Historical reports and anecdotal accounts suggest that niacin (the acid form of Vitamin B3, sometimes used interchangeably with niacinamide in older texts) was used in the mid-20th century for migraine relief, primarily based on its vasodilatory properties. Some hypothesized that niacin’s ability to dilate blood vessels could counteract the cerebral vasoconstriction believed to contribute to migraines. Early case series and small, uncontrolled studies from the 1940s-1970s reported some benefit, but these were not rigorous by modern standards and often included both niacin and niacinamide. There is little evidence that niacinamide specifically, as opposed to niacin, has a therapeutic effect, and modern clinical trials are lacking. Contemporary migraine treatment guidelines do not recommend niacinamide or niacin supplementation for migraine prevention or treatment due to insufficient evidence. In summary, while the use of Vitamin B3 for migraines is rooted in tradition and historical practice, there is a lack of robust scientific validation, and the overall quality of evidence is low.

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