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Vitamin B3 (Niacin) Metabolite Profile, Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures levels of niacin (vitamin B3) metabolites in your blood to assess how your body processes this essential nutrient.

Quick summary

["Understanding your niacin metabolism can help identify potential deficiencies or metabolic issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102102-1
Short code
Vit B3 + metabolites Pnl SerPl LC/MS/MS
Synonyms
Vit B3 + metabolites Pnl SerPl LC/MS/MS
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
lc-ms-ms
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, skin flushing, or digestive problems that could be linked to niacin metabolism. It may also be used to monitor conditions affecting vitamin absorption or metabolism, such as certain genetic disorders or liver disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest for a short time afterward.

What the Test Involves

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample will be sent to a lab for analysis of niacin metabolites, which are chemical forms of the vitamin in your blood.

What the Results Mean

Results provide a snapshot of your niacin metabolism. Abnormal levels might indicate issues with niacin synthesis, absorption, or how your body breaks down this vitamin.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated or low levels of niacin metabolites can signal underlying health concerns, such as niacin deficiency, genetic disorders affecting metabolism, or conditions impacting liver function. This test helps guide treatment decisions for conditions like pellagra (a niacin deficiency disease) or metabolic disorders.

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal niacin metabolite levels?
Abnormal results may be due to dietary deficiencies, certain medications, liver disease, genetic conditions affecting metabolism, or conditions that impair nutrient absorption.
How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I take niacin supplements before the test?
Avoid taking high-dose niacin supplements before the test unless instructed by your provider, as it may affect test results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy