Protocolsmental health
mental healthLow-Moderate

Orthomolecular Psychiatry

Nutrient therapy aimed at correcting biochemical imbalances linked to mental illness, using niacin (B3), vitamin C, B6, zinc and essential fatty acids.

Evidence Score

48/100

Developer

Abram Hoffer, Linus Pauling

Duration

3-12 months to see full benefits, ongoing use

Steps

11 phases

Used for

5 conditions

Protocol Overview

Nutrient therapy aimed at correcting biochemical imbalances linked to mental illness, using niacin (B3), vitamin C, B6, zinc and essential fatty acids. Used alongside psychiatric care, not instead of it.

Used For

DepressionAnxietyADHDSchizophrenia (alongside psychiatric care)Bipolar disorder (alongside psychiatric care)

Key Resources

Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine, "Niacin: The Real Story" by Abram Hoffer, International Society for Orthomolecular Medicine (ISOM)

Supplements & Herbs

Safety Profile

Contraindications & Risks
High-dose niacin: liver disease, gout, stomach ulcers, diabetes (can raise blood sugar); flushing is common. Bipolar disorder (SAMe and some nutrients can trigger mania). Blood thinners (high-dose omega-3). Pregnancy (doses above standard prenatal amounts only with a clinician)
Important Notes

Hoffer reported high recovery rates in his patients, but controlled trials of niacin for schizophrenia have had mixed and mostly negative results. Omega-3 for depression has better trial support. High-dose vitamins are not risk-free, so doses above the upper limits belong with a clinician. Pauling coined the word "orthomolecular." If you are thinking about suicide or in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or call 911.

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EvidenceLow-Moderate
Evidence Score48/100
Categorymental health
Duration3-12 months to see full benefits, ongoing use

About Evidence Score

The Evidence Score (0 to 100) rates the strength of evidence from studies in people for the uses listed: higher means stronger, more consistent research. It does not measure safety. It is not medical advice.

For education, not medical advice. Talk with a licensed clinician before you start, and never stop or change a prescribed medication without your prescriber.