Evidence supporting the use of: Inositol nicotinate
For the health condition: Raynaud's Disease
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Evidence for Inositol Nicotinate in Raynaud's Disease
Inositol nicotinate (also known as hexanicotinate) has been investigated as a treatment for Raynaud's Disease primarily due to its vasodilatory properties. It is a form of niacin (vitamin B3) where inositol is esterified with nicotinic acid, resulting in a compound that is thought to have prolonged-release effects and potentially fewer side effects like flushing compared to standard niacin.
Several small clinical trials, mostly from the 1980s and 1990s, have examined the efficacy of inositol nicotinate in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon. Some studies suggested modest improvements in symptoms such as frequency and severity of attacks and digital blood flow. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in British Journal of Clinical Practice (1988) showed improved finger blood flow and reduced attack frequency compared to placebo. However, these studies were generally small, short-term, and some had methodological limitations.
Systematic reviews and more recent guidelines (such as those from the Cochrane Collaboration and NICE) note that while there is some evidence of benefit, it is not robust, and the quality of supporting data is low to moderate at best. Consequently, inositol nicotinate is not widely recommended in major clinical guidelines for Raynaud's disease, but it has been used in practice in some countries.
In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and limited clinical trial evidence supporting the use of inositol nicotinate for Raynaud's disease, the overall quality and quantity of evidence is modest, resulting in a low to moderate confidence in its effectiveness.
Other health conditions supported by Inositol nicotinate
AnginaArteriosclerosis
Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Cold Hands and Feet
Raynaud's Disease
Varicose Veins
