Vitamin B3 Cuts Glaucoma Risk 66% in 2,920-Patient Study as Trials Test 3-Gram Dose
Updated
Updated · Tech Times · Jul 13
Vitamin B3 Cuts Glaucoma Risk 66% in 2,920-Patient Study as Trials Test 3-Gram Dose
3 articles · Updated · Tech Times · Jul 13
Summary
51 of 1,460 nicotinamide users developed primary open-angle glaucoma versus 132 matched nonusers, a 3.5% versus 9.0% rate over a mean 3.7 years in patients with elevated eye pressure.
The 20-year electronic health record analysis also found lower treatment burden: prescription eye drops were started in 13.6% of nicotinamide users versus 21.2% of controls, and laser procedures in 0.8% versus 1.9%.
Researchers say the vitamin may protect retinal ganglion cells by replenishing NAD+, a key molecule in cellular energy metabolism that declines with age and may leave optic nerve cells more vulnerable.
The study was observational, so it cannot prove causation; over-the-counter use may be underrecorded, dosing was not captured, and healthier supplement users could partly explain the apparent benefit.
Two liver-injury cases at 3 grams per day have already prompted AGS and AAO caution, with randomized Phase III trial results expected by late 2026 to determine whether the effect is real and safe.
This vitamin may slash glaucoma risk by 66%, but is it safe and what is the effective dose?
A common vitamin is linked to preventing blindness, but is this a breakthrough or just a statistical illusion?
Nicotinamide Cuts Glaucoma Risk by 66% in High Eye Pressure Patients: Landmark 2026 Findings
Overview
A major real-world study published in July 2026 revealed that nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, can significantly reduce the risk of developing glaucoma, especially in people with high eye pressure. The research found that vitamin B3 supplementation is linked to a 66% lower chance of glaucoma in these individuals. Traditionally, treatment for ocular hypertension focused on lowering eye pressure to delay glaucoma, but many patients still progressed to optic nerve damage. This new finding highlights nicotinamide as a promising preventative measure, offering hope for better protection against glaucoma beyond just managing eye pressure.