NAD+¶
Tags: NAD+, Energy, Mitochondrial, Anti-aging, Coenzyme
Quick Summary
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a vital cellular coenzyme declining with age that supports energy production, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation. Injectable forms provide 100% bioavailability for rapid cellular uptake and mitochondrial function optimization.
Quick Facts¶
- Typical Dose: 100–1000 mg (common clinical ranges shown below)
- Typical Clinical Dose (quick start): 250–500 mg
- How Often: 1–3× weekly (protocol-dependent)
- Route: Injectable (IV, IM, SubQ); oral, topical, and nasal forms also reported
- Cycle: 4–12 weeks (typical)
- Storage: 2–8°C (refrigerated)
Overview¶
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a vital coenzyme found in every cell that plays a crucial role in energy production, DNA repair, and cellular metabolism. As NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, supplementation can support cellular health, boost energy, enhance cognitive function, and promote longevity.
Key Benefits¶
- Highest bioavailability (100%) for injectable forms
- Rapid cellular uptake and immediate energy enhancement
- Supports mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation
Mechanism of action¶
Direct delivery to the bloodstream ensures maximum cellular availability for energy production, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation.
Research indications¶
- Energy Metabolism (Most Effective): restores mitochondrial function and ATP synthesis capacity
- Anti-Aging (Effective): supports metabolic and cellular maintenance with age-related NAD+ decline
- Neurological Support (Moderate): may support cognitive function and recovery
Research protocols¶
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Wellness & Energy | 100–250 mg | 1–2× weekly | IV or IM |
| Anti-Aging Protocol | 250–500 mg | 2–3× weekly | IV infusion |
| Cognitive Enhancement | 500–1000 mg | 1–2× weekly | IV infusion |
| Athletic Performance | 250–500 mg | 2× weekly | IM injection |
| Recovery & Repair | 500–1000 mg | 3× weekly | IV infusion |
| Maintenance Therapy | 100–250 mg | 1× weekly | SubQ or IM |
Timing: Morning administration aligns with natural circadian rhythms and provides sustained energy throughout the day.
Interactions¶
Compatible / Complementary
- Sirtuins (SIRT1-7) — Substrate; synergistic activation
- AMPK — Complementary pathway activation
- Pterostilbene/Resveratrol — Compatible; enhance NAD+ benefits
- B vitamins (niacin precursors) — Compatible
- Exercise — Synergistic; endogenous NAD+ production increases with activity
Monitor
- Nicotinamide supplements — Monitor total intake; excess can be hepatotoxic
- Alcohol — Monitor; alcohol impairs NAD+ metabolism and sirtuin function
- Antidiabetic medications — Monitor glucose; NAD+ may improve insulin sensitivity
Avoid
- High-dose niacin (flushing type) — Avoid concurrent use; overlapping metabolism
- Excessive alcohol — Avoid; directly reduces NAD+ levels and impairs function
How to Reconstitute¶
- Clean work surface and wash hands thoroughly.
- Wipe tops of both vials with alcohol swabs.
- Draw appropriate amount of bacteriostatic water (typically 2–3 mL for a 500 mg vial).
- Inject water slowly into the NAD+ vial, aiming at the glass wall.
- Gently swirl (do not shake) until completely dissolved — may take 2–3 minutes.
- Draw the prescribed dose using a fresh needle.
- Inject at chosen site (IM: deltoid, glute, or thigh; SubQ: abdomen or thigh).
- Dispose of needles safely and store remaining solution refrigerated; use within 28 days after reconstitution.
Quality Indicators¶
Positive Signs
- Clear, colorless solution with no visible particles
- Proper refrigeration maintained at 2–8°C for potency
- Sterile vial with intact seal and batch information
- Solution used within 28 days of reconstitution with bacteriostatic water
- Proper storage: protected from light and temperature fluctuations
Warning Signs
- Cloudy or discolored solution indicates contamination or degradation — do not use
- Solution older than 28 days after reconstitution — do not use
- Vial seal broken or missing batch information
- Improper storage or temperature excursions
- Crystallization or particle formation in solution
What to expect¶
- Week 1–2: Initial energy improvements and mental clarity
- Week 3–4: Enhanced physical performance and recovery
- Week 5–8: Sustained energy levels and improved sleep quality
- Week 9–12: Optimized metabolic function and cognitive benefits
Side effects & safety¶
- Start with lower doses to assess tolerance
- IV administration requires medical supervision
- Monitor for injection site reactions
- Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment
- Maintain consistent dosing schedule for best results
References¶
NAD+ Decline in Aging (2016)
Research documenting the age-related decline in NAD+ levels and its implications for cellular metabolism and longevity.
NAD+ IV Therapy Safety Study (2019)
Clinical evaluation of NAD+ intravenous therapy safety profile and bioavailability in human subjects.
Nicotinamide Riboside Bioavailability (2016)
Study examining bioavailability and metabolic effects of nicotinamide riboside as an NAD+ precursor.