NAD+

Coenzyme · Also known as Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, NAD

What is NAD+?

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every cell that plays a central role in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. NAD+ levels decline with age, and supplementation aims to restore cellular function.

NAD+ is involved in hundreds of metabolic processes including converting food to energy, maintaining DNA integrity, and regulating circadian rhythms. Research suggests that boosting NAD+ levels may help counteract age-related cellular decline. NAD+ can be delivered via injection, nasal spray, oral supplements, or IV infusion.

Key takeaway: NAD+ is a foundational molecule for cellular health that declines with age. Supplementation through various delivery methods is being studied for anti-aging, energy, and neuroprotective benefits.

Benefits & evidence

Cellular energy production Moderate confidence
DNA repair support Moderate confidence
Anti-aging and longevity Preliminary confidence
Neuroprotection Preliminary confidence
Improved metabolic function Preliminary confidence

How it works

NAD+ serves as an electron carrier in mitochondria during cellular respiration, directly fueling ATP production. It also activates sirtuins, a family of proteins involved in DNA repair, inflammation control, and longevity pathways.

As a substrate for PARP enzymes, NAD+ supports DNA damage repair. It also regulates circadian clock proteins that control sleep-wake cycles and metabolic timing.

Dosing information

Typical dosing protocol
Starting dose

100-250mg injection or 100mg nasal spray

2-4 weeks
Maintenance dose

250-500mg injection weekly or daily nasal spray

Ongoing

Dosing varies significantly by delivery method. IV infusions use much higher doses (250-1000mg). Always follow prescriber guidance.

Research (56 studies)

Reprogramming the mitochondrial-circadian energy code with incretins. Trends in endocrinology and metabolism: TEM · 2026
Apoptosis-inducing factor starts its activity within mitochondria revealed by in situ vibrational probes. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America · 2026
Transition-state analysis of the arginine-specific human ADP-ribosyltransferase 1. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America · 2026
Geroprotective Agents, Including Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists, for Ocular Health. Journal of ocular pharmacology and therapeutics : the official journal of the Association for Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics · 2026