nicotinamide + pyruvate

Nicotinamide + pyruvate is an oral combination of two metabolic agents—nicotinamide (the amide form of vitamin B3) and pyruvate—investigated primarily for neuroprotection in glaucoma. Nicotinamide serves as a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), supporting mitochondrial function and cellular energy metabolism, while pyruvate acts as both a glycolytic substrate and antioxidant. Together, they target mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic deficits observed in retinal ganglion cells in glaucoma. Preclinical studies showed that the combination was more effective at preventing glaucomatous neurodegeneration than either agent alone. Clinical trials have demonstrated short-term improvements in visual function for patients with open-angle glaucoma when used alongside standard intraocular pressure-lowering therapies[1][5][7]. The mechanism is believed to involve enhancement of retinal ganglion cell survival through improved energy metabolism, increased NAD+ levels, support for glycolysis, and reduction of oxidative stress[1][5].

Other names

nicotinamide and pyruvateN&P