A daily dose of vitamin B3 significantly reduces lung inflammation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), offering hope for improved treatment options, according to a groundbreaking study by researchers at the University of Copenhagen.

“This is significant, because inflammation can lead to reduced lung function in these patients,” explained Dr. Morten Scheibye-Knudsen, a lead researcher involved in the study.

COPD, a progressive lung condition, increases vulnerability to severe respiratory infections like pneumonia and influenza, which can be life-threatening.

Promising Results from Clinical Trial

The study, published in Nature Aging, involved 40 COPD patients and a control group of 20 healthy individuals. Participants received either 2 grams of nicotinamide riboside—a form of vitamin B3—or a placebo daily.

Over the initial six weeks, those receiving vitamin B3 therapy experienced a 53% reduction in interleukin-8 (IL-8), a key marker of inflammation. By the 18-week mark, the reduction had increased to 63%.

“These results demonstrate that vitamin B3 therapy significantly reduces lung inflammation,” the research team noted in a university statement.

Potential Anti-Aging Benefits

In addition to curbing inflammation, the study found that COPD patients had lower blood levels of NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a molecule linked to aging and DNA repair. Treatment with vitamin B3 boosted NAD levels, which appeared to slow cellular aging processes.

“As we age, we seem to metabolize NAD faster,” Scheibye-Knudsen explained. “Loss of this molecule is also associated with DNA damage, such as that caused by smoking. This suggests NAD could be a future target for therapy.”

Next Steps in Research

The findings have sparked optimism, but the researchers emphasized the need for larger studies to confirm the results and understand the long-term impact of vitamin B3 on COPD.

“We hope this research will pave the way for new treatment options for COPD patients,” Scheibye-Knudsen said.

COPD affects millions worldwide, and innovative treatments like this could significantly enhance the quality of life for those battling this debilitating condition.