NAD+
Also known as: Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, NAD
A coenzyme found in every living cell that is essential for energy production, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. While not technically a peptide, NAD+ therapy (via IV, injection, or precursors like NMN and NR) is widely used in longevity clinics. Levels naturally decline with age.
How it works
NAD+ is a coenzyme (not a peptide) that acts as an electron carrier in your cells' energy production process. Every step of cellular respiration, from glycolysis to the citric acid cycle, depends on NAD+ to generate ATP (cellular fuel). It also activates sirtuins, a family of proteins that regulate DNA repair, inflammation, and aging. NAD+ levels drop by about 50% between ages 40 and 60, which is thought to contribute to age-related decline.
Common uses
- Cellular energy and mitochondrial support
- Anti-aging protocols
- Addiction recovery support
- Cognitive clarity and brain fog
- Exercise recovery
Side effects
- Nausea and stomach discomfort (oral supplements)
- Flushing and warmth (IV infusion)
- Chest tightness during IV infusion (if rate is too fast)
- Injection site pain (subcutaneous)
- Headache
- Long-term safety data for high-dose supplementation is limited
Key research
- Multiple human studies show NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) effectively raise blood NAD+ levels
- 2025 FDA reversal allowed NMN to be sold as a dietary supplement again in the US
- Clinical trials in rare diseases with premature aging showed promising results from NAD supplementation
- Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials continue to investigate NAD+ for various age-related conditions
- No published clinical evidence yet that raising NAD+ extends human lifespan
Safety notes
- NAD+ is a coenzyme, not a peptide, but is commonly offered alongside peptide therapies
- IV infusions are not FDA-approved and are not covered by insurance
- NMN supplements are now legally sold as dietary supplements in the US (FDA reversed 2022 restriction in September 2025)
- Long-term cancer risk questions remain unresolved
- Quality of supplements varies significantly between brands
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