Quick Answer
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a molecule in every cell that helps turn food into usable energy and supports other basic cell processes. Levels appear to fall with age and with some diseases, which has led to interest in raising them with supplements or IV infusions. Supplements called NR and NMN can raise NAD+ in the blood, but research on whether that improves health in people is early and mixed. IV NAD+ has been studied even less, so expectations should stay realistic.
Who this is for: adults curious about NAD+ supplements or NAD+ infusions who want a balanced look at the science
What NAD+ Does in the Body
NAD+ is a coenzyme, a helper molecule that enzymes need to do their jobs. More than 400 enzymes rely on it, mainly to move energy from carbohydrates, fats and proteins into a form cells can use.[1] It also helps keep DNA stable and supports communication inside and between cells.
The body makes NAD+ from forms of vitamin B3 (niacin), found in foods such as poultry, fish, nuts, beans and grains, and from tryptophan, an amino acid in protein.[1] Serious niacin deficiency is very rare in the United States.
Why NAD+ Gets So Much Attention
NAD+ levels tend to decline with age and with many diseases. In animal studies, raising NAD+ has had wide-ranging effects on aging and disease.[2] Those findings sparked strong interest in NAD+ for energy, healthy aging and recovery.
Animal results do not always carry over to people. Researchers describe the human evidence that raising NAD+ improves how the body functions as unclear so far.[2]
Everyday foods like fish, beans and whole grains supply the vitamin B3 the body uses to make NAD+.
Precursors: NR and NMN
Most human research has used oral precursors, compounds the body converts into NAD+. The two most studied are nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN).
- Both appear safe and well tolerated in short-term studies and can raise NAD+ levels.[2]
- Some small NMN trials reported improvements in muscle performance, insulin sensitivity or aerobic capacity, while others found no clear effect, for example on sleep.[3]
- Most trials have been small and short, so results are hard to apply to everyone.[3]
A higher NAD+ level on a blood test does not necessarily mean better health. Larger, longer studies are still needed.
What We Know About IV NAD+
IV NAD+ delivers the molecule directly into the bloodstream, but research is limited. One small pilot study gave 750 mg over six hours to eight healthy men and found it was well tolerated. Blood NAD+ did not rise until late in the infusion, suggesting the body breaks it down quickly.[4] The study did not look at symptoms or health outcomes.
Many people notice sensations during an NAD+ infusion, such as flushing, warmth, chest tightness, nausea or stomach cramping. These are often linked to how fast it runs, so NAD+ is given slowly and the rate can be lowered if symptoms appear. Tell staff right away if you feel uncomfortable.
Who Should Be Cautious
Because research is still early, extra caution makes sense if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of cancer, or have heart, kidney or liver disease. Some animal research has raised questions about whether NAD+ precursors could affect cancer growth, and long-term safety data in people are limited.[3] Check with your provider before starting any NAD+ product, especially if you take prescription medications.
How We Approach NAD+ at Lake Forest Regenesis
Allana reviews your symptoms, health history, medications and labs before discussing NAD+. She looks first for common, treatable causes of low energy, such as thyroid problems, low iron or poor sleep (see common medical causes of fatigue). If you choose an NAD+ infusion, it is given in the clinic’s IV lounge with a provider on site, and the rate is adjusted for your comfort. She is clear about what the research does and does not show, so you can decide with realistic expectations.
When to See a Provider
During an infusion, tell staff right away about chest pain, trouble breathing, a racing or irregular heartbeat, or swelling of the face or lips. If these happen outside the clinic, call 911. Book a visit if you have ongoing fatigue, brain fog or low energy, since these often have a medical cause worth checking before trying NAD+.
Curious whether NAD+ makes sense for you? Allana can review your symptoms, labs and health history to help you weigh the options honestly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IV NAD+ better than an oral supplement?
That has not been shown. There are no large head-to-head studies in people, and both are still being studied for real health benefits.
Will I feel more energetic after NAD+?
Some people report feeling better, but studies have not confirmed a reliable effect on energy. Experiences vary from person to person.
Why does an NAD+ infusion take longer than other drips?
NAD+ is run slowly to limit flushing, chest tightness and nausea. Your visit length depends on the dose and how you feel. For what to expect at the visit itself, see what happens during an IV therapy appointment.
Can I get NAD+ from food?
Your body makes NAD+ from niacin and tryptophan in everyday foods. Most people who eat a varied diet get enough niacin, though diet alone may not change NAD+ levels the way supplements do.
References
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. Niacin: fact sheet for health professionals. Read the fact sheet
- Freeberg KA, et al. Dietary supplementation with NAD+-boosting compounds in humans: current knowledge and future directions. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2023. Read the study
- Song Q, et al. The safety and antiaging effects of nicotinamide mononucleotide in human clinical trials: an update. Adv Nutr. 2023. Read the study
- Grant R, et al. A pilot study investigating changes in the human plasma and urine NAD+ metabolome during a 6 hour intravenous infusion of NAD+. Front Aging Neurosci. 2019. Read the study
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.
