Oral therapy with nicotinamide or niacin usually is effective in reversing the clinical manifestations of pellagra. Because patients are often malnourished and have other vitamin deficiencies, provisions for a high-protein diet and the administration of B-complex vitamins are needed for complete recovery.

How was pellagra solved?

The secret of the malady of pellagra was eventually solved by Dr. Joseph Goldberger of the U.S. Public Health Service. By clinical observation, Goldberger hypothesized that pellagra was due to faulty diet. Goldberger was able to prevent and induce pellagra by dietary modification.

Can niacin deficiency be cured?

Supplements of niacin such as nicotinic acid or nicotinamide are approved by the FDA for treating and preventing niacin deficiency. Under the supervision of a doctor, high doses of over-the-counter or prescription niacin or nicotinic acid can be used to treat high cholesterol, including high triglycerides.