After I read on EC about Niacinamide I stopped Effexor and began taking 2000mg a day. I still have anxiety especially around my periods and these thoughts are driving me insane.
They did not help.
I have now been on Niacinamide for 7 weeks. I see a slight improvement but not a whole lot. I have read Dr. Hoffer's work with Niacinamide.. I have also noticed a strange feeling in my ears, like they are blocked. Does anyone know if it is being caused by the niacinamide. Maybe it is causing toxicity. I am too scared to leave it. I also suffer from intestinal issues. Lot of gas and bloating. I would appreciate any feedback as I'm very desperate.
Replied by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia) on 05/10/2011
Google "Tamoxifen and ear problems" and you will see you are not alone. Many people do not take Tamoxifen because of side effects. It could be interfering with the Niacin.Replied by Julia (Toronto, On) on 05/10/2011
You will be amazed to hear that depression is treatable by nutritional means, once you understand the underlying biochemical mechanism that causes you to be depressed. Please read:
Depression is a Nutritional Disorder at:
http://www.hypoglycemia.asn.au/articles/depression_disorder.html
Depression: a Disease of Energy Production at:
http://www.hypoglycemia.asn.au/index.html
Silent Diseases and Mood Disorders at:
http://www.hypoglycemia.asn.au/articles/silentdiseases.html
Conquering Anxiety, Depression and Fatigue Without Drugs - the Role of Hypoglycemia
by Professor Joel H. Levitt
http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/articles/hypoglycemia.htm
Replied by Randy (Jersey City, Nj, Usa) on 05/12/2011
I believe Julia is correct, you will want to look at nutritional issues. I suffer from both depression and candida overgrowth, which it sounds like you have because of gas and bloating. I found that the candida was causing nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins B12 and D. get that under control, and you will likely see some improvement in depression symptoms. I've managed to get myself off the lexapro I was taking, due in large part by management of candida. I take 5htp now, which I find has no side effects I'm aware of.
I've also found that long-term depression can dig roots into your way of thinking. I've had to be vigilant in monitoring my self talk. I've found that use of 'self-help' materials, particularly audio tapes, on a regular basis has helped a ton. recognize where your thoughts are hurting you, and change it there.
Replied by Carlos (Brazil) on 05/13/2011
I think you are taking the right approach. It might take some time but I trust you will find a solution to your problem. Be patient with yourself.
However don't be quick in turning down prescribed medication. It has its place too.
The amount of vitamin B3 you are taking is not toxic. Everybody is different but I personally take way more than 2 grams of it everyday with no ill effects.
Also, why niacinamine and not nicotinic acid? I would only take niacinamine if you can't handle the flush. Start slow (50mg) and go up. I personally can take 2 grams of it with a meal and do not flush now. Plus you get the added bonus of having low bad cholesterol, among other things. It will also make your skin glow. Good luck.
Replied by Jr (Coloma, Mi) on 05/14/2011
Julia, Thanks for those web-sites you shared regarding hypoglycemia. I found some very valuable information there.
