Vitamin B3 May Help Improve Vision

Glaucoma is a disease that damages your eye's optic nerve. It usually happens when fluid builds up in the front part of your eye. A recent study has found that supplementation with nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, may help improve vision in people with glaucoma.

Fifty-seven people diagnosed with glaucoma participated in the study. They received 1.5 grams of nicotinamide or a placebo daily for 6 weeks. Then they received 3.5 grams of nicotinamide or a placebo for 6 more weeks. After 12 weeks, they crossed over for an additional 12 weeks. The researchers measured visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and photopic negative response at baseline and every 6 weeks throughout the study period.

Participants saw significant improvements in visual function following supplementation with nicotinamide. They also saw a 14.8% improvement in nerve cell functioning, compared to 5.2% after taking the placebo. In addition, inner retinal function improved by 23% following supplementation with nicotinamide.

The study was conducted by researchers from the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital. It was published online ahead of print on July 28, 2020 in the journal Clinical & Experimental Opthamology.