| OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of niacinamide, on selected
parameters of osteoarthritis using a double-blind, placebo controlled
study design. METHODS: Seventy two patients with osteoarthritis were
randomized for treatment with niacinamide or an identical placebo for
12 weeks. Outcome measures included global arthritis impact and pain,
joint range of motion and flexibility, erythrocyte sedimentation
rate, complete blood count, liver function tests, cholesterol, uric
acid, and fasting blood sugar. Compliance was monitored with a pill
record sheet and interview. RESULTS: Global arthritis impact improved
by 29% (95% confidence interval [CI] 6, 46) in subjects on
niacinamide and worsened by 10% in placebo subjects (p = 0.04). Pain
levels did not change but those on niacinamide reduced their anti-
inflammatory medications by 13% (95% CI 9, 94; p = 0.01). Niacinamide
reduced erythrocyte sedimentation rate by 22% (95% CI 6, 51; p <
0.005) and increased joint mobility by 4.5 degrees over controls (8
degrees vs 3.5 degrees; p = 0.04). Side effects were mild but higher
in the niacinamide group (40% vs 27%, p = 0.003). CONCLUSION: This
study indicates that niacinamide may have a role in the treatment of
osteoarthritis. Niacinamide improved the global impact of
osteoarthritis, improved joint flexibility, reduced inflammation, and
allowed for reduction in standard anti-inflammatory medications when
compared to placebo. More extensive evaluation of niacinamide in
arthritis is warranted.
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