nic·o·tin·ic ac·id n. Chem. An organic acid (C6H5NO2), a carboxylated derivative of pyridine, obtained by the oxidation of nicotine; called also niacin and antipellagra vitamin, and vitamin B5. Chemically it is 3-pyridinecarboxylic acid.
Note: It is a cofactor in several enzymatic reactions, and is used to prevent a pellagra-like disease in dogs. --[MI11]
Syn: -- 3-pyridinecarboxylic acid, niacin, antipellagra vitamin.
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nicotinic acid
n : a B vitamin essential for the normal function of the nervous
system and the gastrointestinal tract [syn: niacin]