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Copper Nicotinic Acid

Also known as: Copper nicotinate, Copper niacin complex, Copper-vitamin B3 complex, Copper(I)-nicotinate, CuCl(HNA)₂, Copper Nicotinic Acid Complex

Overview

Copper nicotinic acid complex is a synthetic coordination compound combining the essential trace element copper with nicotinic acid (niacin, vitamin B3). Unlike its individual components, this complex is not found naturally in foods. It is being investigated for its potential antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and lipid-modulating effects, particularly in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The complex is also recognized for its superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic activity, suggesting a role in reducing oxidative stress. Research into copper nicotinic acid complex is currently in early-stage preclinical development, primarily involving animal studies and in vitro assays. While individual copper and niacin supplements have robust research supporting their benefits, the specific complex lacks comprehensive human clinical data, making its efficacy and safety in humans largely unestablished.

Benefits

Preclinical studies in animal models of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have shown that copper nicotinic acid complex can significantly improve liver histology, reduce liver fat accumulation, and normalize markers of oxidative stress, such as nitric oxide, lipid peroxides, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase. These improvements were observed after 4 weeks of administration. In vitro studies have also demonstrated that copper nicotinic acid complexes possess superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic activity, with IC₅₀ values around 34.42 µM, indicating its potential to scavenge superoxide radicals and reduce oxidative damage. Additionally, some complexes have shown antimicrobial activity against *Bacillus subtilis* ATCC 6633, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 256 µg/mL. While these findings suggest potential benefits in conditions involving oxidative stress and liver dysfunction, it is crucial to note that these effects have only been observed in preclinical settings, and their clinical significance in humans remains unknown due to the absence of human trials.

How it works

Copper nicotinic acid complex primarily exerts its effects by acting as a superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic. This means it can mimic the activity of the natural antioxidant enzyme SOD, thereby reducing oxidative stress by directly scavenging harmful superoxide radicals. In the context of fatty liver disease, this reduction in oxidative stress is thought to contribute to the restoration of liver structure and function. The complex may also influence lipid metabolism pathways, helping to modulate fat accumulation in the liver. Its interaction with the body's systems is primarily focused on the liver and the broader antioxidant defense mechanisms. The specific molecular targets involve the SOD pathway and enzymes related to lipid metabolism. While human data on absorption and bioavailability are lacking, animal studies suggest sufficient oral bioavailability for the observed therapeutic effects.

Side effects

The overall safety profile of copper nicotinic acid complex is not well-established due to limited human data. Preclinical animal studies have not reported overt toxicity at the doses tested. However, it is important to consider the known side effects of its individual components. Niacin (nicotinic acid) alone can cause common side effects in humans, including flushing, itching, and gastrointestinal upset. Uncommon side effects of niacin can include elevated liver enzymes and glucose intolerance. Rare side effects for the complex have not been reported. Potential drug interactions are not specifically documented for the complex, but caution is advised regarding interactions with lipid-lowering drugs and other hepatotoxic agents, given niacin's effects on lipids and potential for liver enzyme elevation. Contraindications are not established, but individuals with pre-existing liver disease or copper metabolism disorders should exercise caution. The safety of copper nicotinic acid complex has not been studied in pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations.

Dosage

Optimal dosage ranges for copper nicotinic acid complex in humans have not been established, as there are no human clinical trials. Preclinical animal studies have utilized doses equivalent to approximately 10–20 mg/kg body weight, administered orally. However, these dosages cannot be directly translated to humans without further research. The minimum effective dose, maximum safe dose, and specific timing considerations for human use are currently unknown. Animal studies typically involved daily oral administration for a duration of 4 weeks. There are no specific form-specific recommendations for humans, and absorption factors are not well-understood, though they are likely dependent on the gastrointestinal absorption of both copper and niacin. No specific cofactors have been identified as required for its action, as both copper and niacin are essential nutrients themselves.

FAQs

Is copper nicotinic acid complex a natural supplement?

No, copper nicotinic acid complex is a synthetic compound, a coordination complex of copper and niacin. It is not found naturally in foods or biological systems.

Are there human studies on copper nicotinic acid complex?

Currently, there are no high-quality human clinical trials, systematic reviews, or meta-analyses specifically on copper nicotinic acid complex. Research is limited to preclinical animal studies and in vitro assays.

What are the potential benefits of copper nicotinic acid complex?

Preclinical animal studies suggest potential benefits in improving liver health and reducing oxidative stress in fatty liver disease models. It has also shown antioxidant (SOD mimetic) and some antimicrobial activity in vitro.

Is copper nicotinic acid complex safe to use?

Its safety in humans is largely unknown. While animal studies have not reported overt toxicity at tested doses, human data are lacking. Caution is advised, especially given potential side effects of niacin and copper individually.

How should copper nicotinic acid complex be dosed?

There are no established dosing guidelines for humans. All current research is preclinical, and dosages used in animal studies cannot be directly applied to human use without further clinical investigation.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17403185/ – This preclinical animal study investigated the effects of copper nicotinic acid complex in rats with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The findings indicated that the complex significantly improved liver histology, reduced liver fat accumulation, and normalized oxidative stress markers, suggesting its potential as a hepatoprotective agent in NAFLD models.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6244828/ – This in vitro study explored the properties of various copper complexes, including those with nicotinic acid. It demonstrated that copper nicotinic acid complexes exhibit superoxide dismutase (SOD) mimetic activity, indicating their ability to scavenge superoxide radicals, and also showed some antimicrobial activity against *Bacillus subtilis*.
https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/vitamins/niacin – This source provides comprehensive information on niacin (vitamin B3), including its roles in metabolism, health benefits, and potential side effects. While not specific to the copper complex, it offers context on the individual component niacin, which is relevant for understanding potential interactions and effects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12185207/ – This study, while not directly about copper nicotinic acid complex, provides background on copper's role in human health and its various forms. It contributes to understanding the copper component of the complex and its general biological significance.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20079494/ – This meta-analysis focuses on the effects of niacin (nicotinic acid) in cardiovascular disease. It highlights niacin's ability to improve lipid profiles and reduce cardiovascular events, but also notes potential side effects like increased risk of new-onset diabetes. This source provides high-quality evidence for niacin alone, which is a component of the complex.