NAD+ has made waves in Hollywood, with stars like Justin and Hailey Bieber, Jennifer Aniston and top wellness and biohacking influencers crediting it for health and longevity benefits. Gwyneth Paltrow says she swears by it, Justin Bieber shared in his YouTube docuseries that he receives weekly infusions, while Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner have been spotted getting NAD+ drips together on The Kardashians. But what exactly is NAD+, how does it work and can you get the same benefits from supplements?
Featured Experts
- Dr. Daniel Yadegar is the co-founder of Happy Aging
- Mona Rosene, MS, RD is the global director of Scientific Affairs at ChromaDex
- Dr. Mark Jewell is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Eugene, OR
The Science Behind NAD+
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme that’s present in every cell of the body and plays a role in cellular energy production, repair and metabolism. Dr. Daniel Yadegar, co-founder of Happy Aging, explains that NAD+ “is central to our cells’ energy production and is involved in numerous essential metabolic pathways.” However, NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, which has led some to explore ways to replenish it.
According to Dr. Yadegar, some studies suggest that elevating NAD+ levels may enhance mitochondrial performance and cellular resilience, potentially supporting cognitive and physical functions. He notes, “Clinical trials have shown improvements in cellular health, cognitive function and overall metabolic balance with elevated NAD+ levels.” However, experts emphasize that research is still evolving and additional studies are needed to fully understand the long-term benefits and risks of NAD+ supplementation.
Do NAD+ Infusions Work?
NAD+ infusions are popular with some users who say they experience energy boosts or mental clarity after treatment, however, Eugene, OR plastic surgeon Mark Jewell, MD cautions that there’s “no substantive data on efficacy or, more important, safety” of NAD+ infusions. This underscores the need for careful consideration and consultation with a healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.
Dr. Yadegar says that intravenous NAD+ raises blood levels quickly, which some people find beneficial in “acute situations,” but acknowledges that the effects are short-term and may require ongoing infusions.
“While many NAD+ IV has been buzzing amongst celebrities, it can cause severe side effects like nausea, diarrhea and headaches and it can take hours to infuse,” says Mona Rosene, MS, RD of ChromaDex, the company behind the NAD+ oral supplement Tru Niagen. Rosene shares that even the oral version can have its drawbacks, too. “Oral supplementation with Niacin, another common NAD+ precursor, can cause flushing.”
Infusions vs. Supplements
NAD+ infusions are designed to deliver NAD+ directly into the bloodstream for rapid elevation in levels, but they’re expensive, time-consuming and require professional administration. Newer supplements, on the other hand, may take longer to affect NAD+ levels but are easier to use regularly and may offer a more sustainable option for those looking to maintain steady NAD+ levels over time. “Advances in supplement technology, like liposomal NAD+, have improved absorption, making supplementation a practical long-term option,” says Dr. Yadegar.
Rosene adds, “Tru Niagen’s patented nicotinamide riboside (NR) crosses directly into cells and converts into NAD+, supporting cellular function and metabolism.” She notes that Tru Niagen, backed by clinical studies, may be beneficial for supporting overall cellular health without the need for repeated infusions.
How Often Do You Need Treatments?
The frequency of NAD+ treatments varies. Some may use NAD+ infusions as a wellness boost before events or travel, while others schedule them weekly or monthly. Rosene notes that daily NAD+ supplements, however, may be a more consistent way to support NAD+ levels. “Oral supplements maintain NAD+ levels over time, while infusions can lead to fluctuating levels,” she explains. She stresses the need to discuss a personal plan with a healthcare provider. “You should always consult your healthcare provider when starting a new supplement,” she stresses.
Shop This Story
If you’re interested in exploring NAD+, these supplements show promise for delivering the benefits at home.
