RCTHumann = 39 out of 43 enrolled completed the study2026Denmark
Nicotinamide and Pyridoxine Supplementation Enhances Muscle Stem Cell Activity and Muscle Regeneration in Humans: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial of High Force Eccentric Contraction Recovery in Healthy Young Men.
Plain-language summary
This study tested whether a combination of nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) and pyridoxine (vitamin B6) could boost muscle stem cell activity and speed up muscle repair after intense exercise. Healthy young men took either the supplement mix or a placebo for 9 days after a session of damaging leg exercises, and muscle biopsies were analyzed to measure stem cell activity and regeneration markers. The supplement group showed significantly more active muscle stem cells and faster muscle repair compared to the placebo group. The findings suggest these vitamins may help accelerate recovery after strenuous workouts.
Key findings
- Nicotinamide and pyridoxine supplementation increased muscle stem cell activity by 29%-67% compared to placebo.
- The supplement group had 37% more regenerating muscle fibers after exercise-induced damage.
- The combination was well-tolerated and raised blood levels of both vitamins.
How to analyze the study yourself
- Study type
- Randomized controlled trials are strong for showing cause and effect but may not reflect real-world conditions or long-term effects.
- Population
- Healthy young men; results may not apply to older adults, women, or those with muscle disorders.
- Funding
- Not reported
- Watch for
- This study found that a high-dose B3/B6 combo boosted muscle stem cells and sped repair after hard exercise. If you do intense training, it may be worth trying this supplement mix around tough workouts.