NAD+
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide
NAD+ is a vital coenzyme present in every cell that plays crucial roles in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular aging processes. As NAD+ levels naturally decline with age (by ~50% by age 50), supplementation through IV therapy or injections aims to restore cellular energy production, activate longevity pathways through sirtuin proteins, and support mitochondrial health. Research demonstrates significant improvements in cognitive function, physical performance, and biomarkers of aging.
NAD+ Dosing Guide
Primary Benefits
- Enhanced cellular energy production and ATP synthesis
- Activation of sirtuins (SIRT1-7) for longevity pathway support
- Improved mitochondrial function and biogenesis
- Enhanced DNA repair through PARP enzyme activation
- Cognitive function improvements (memory, focus, processing speed)
How It Works
NAD+ functions as an essential coenzyme in over 400 enzymatic reactions, primarily serving as an electron carrier in cellular respiration and energy metabolism. In mitochondria, NAD+ accepts electrons from metabolic substrates and transfers them through the electron transport chain for ATP synthesis. NAD+ also serves as a substrate for three major enzyme families: sirtuins (SIRT1-7), poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs), and CD38/CD157. Sirtuin activation by NAD+ promotes deacetylation of key proteins involved in metabolism, stress resistance, and longevity, including PGC-1α for mitochondrial biogenesis, p53 for DNA repair, and FOXO transcription factors for stress response. PARP enzymes utilize NAD+ for DNA repair processes, while CD38 represents a major NAD+ consumer that increases with age, contributing to age-related NAD+ decline.
Quick Reference
Typical Dosage Range
NAD+ dosing varies significantly based on administration route and therapeutic goals. For IV infusions, initial doses start at 250mg administered over 2-3 hours to assess tolerance, with gradual escalation to 500-750mg per session. Maintenance protocols typically use 500mg 2-3 times weekly. Higher doses (1000mg+) are reserved for intensive protocols under medical supervision. Subcutaneous injection protocols use 100-200mg daily or every other day. Treatment frequency depends on individual response and goals: acute interventions may use daily dosing for 1-2 weeks, while maintenance protocols use 2-3 sessions weekly. Oral NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) are often used between IV sessions at doses of 250-500mg daily. Close monitoring of energy levels, sleep quality, and tolerance guides dose optimization.
Administration Methods
IV infusion remains the gold standard for NAD+ delivery, using slow infusion rates (typically 2-4 hours) to minimize side effects and maximize cellular uptake. The solution is prepared fresh and administered through standard IV access, with vital sign monitoring throughout the infusion. Subcutaneous injection offers a more convenient alternative, using small volumes (1-2ml) injected into fatty tissue of the abdomen or thigh. Some clinics offer intramuscular injection for intermediate bioavailability. Push IV (rapid injection) is generally avoided due to high incidence of nausea and flushing. Oral NAD+ has poor bioavailability, so most protocols use precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) that convert to NAD+ intracellularly. Combination approaches often use IV sessions 2-3 times weekly with oral precursors on off days.
Medical Disclaimer
NAD+ therapy is currently in research phase and not FDA-approved for specific medical conditions. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with qualified healthcare providers. Individual results may vary significantly. Professional medical supervision is recommended for all NAD+ therapeutic protocols.