Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3, or niacin, is a vital water-soluble vitamin essential for energy release, protein metabolism, and hormone production. It also aids in red blood cell formation and may help prevent diabetes, improve circulation, and alleviate arthritis. Testing for vitamin B3 levels involves measuring nicotinic acid and nicotinamide, using methods like LC-MS/MS and HPLC for accurate results. Plasma or serum specimens, collected in red-top or lavender-top tubes, are required, with a minimum volume of 1 mL. Immediate freezing and light-protected storage are crucial for specimen stability. Deficiency in vitamin B3 can lead to pellagra, characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia, while excessive intake can cause toxicity, with symptoms like flushing and nausea. Test results guide diagnosis, with nicotinic acid levels below 5.0 ng/mL indicating deficiency and above suggesting normal or toxic levels. Proper fasting, specimen handling, and understanding of results are essential for effective patient management.

Price of test:£97

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £97

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

Vitamin B3, or niacin, is vital for energy release, metabolism, and hormone production. Testing for vitamin B3 levels involves measuring nicotinic acid and nicotinamide using LC-MS/MS or HPLC. Accurate testing requires:

- Plasma or serum specimens in red-top or lavender-top tubes.
- A minimum volume of 1 mL per tube.
- Immediate freezing and light-protected storage.

Deficiency can cause pellagra, while excess intake may lead to toxicity. Proper interpretation of results and careful specimen handling are crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.

Who Should Get Tested

Vitamin B3 testing is crucial for diagnosing deficiencies or toxicities. Key individuals who should be tested include:

- Those with symptoms of pellagra, such as dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia.
- Individuals with inadequate dietary intake of niacin or tryptophan.
- Patients on high-dose niacin supplements for hypercholesterolemia.
- People with symptoms of niacin toxicity, like flushing or dizziness.

Proper specimen collection and storage are vital for accurate results. Testing helps guide treatment, ensuring optimal health outcomes by addressing deficiencies or preventing toxicity.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results for vitamin B3 is crucial for diagnosing deficiencies or toxicities. Here's a brief overview:

- Nicotinic Acid (Niacin): Levels below 5.0 ng/mL suggest deficiency; above may indicate normal or toxicity.
- Nicotinamide: Normal range is 5.2-72.1 ng/mL; deviations suggest deficiency or toxicity.

Practical Tips:

- Fasting: Recommended for 4-8 hours before testing.
- Specimen Handling: Avoid hemolysis and lipemia for accurate results.
- Turnaround Time: Typically 3-13 days, depending on the lab.

Accurate interpretation aids in effective patient management.

Price of test:£97

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £97

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