Peptide Academy · Longevity

NAD+

Also known as Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide

Educational research summary, not medical advice. Many compounds here are not approved for human use. Talk to a licensed clinician before making any health decision.

The Peptide Academy is free to read. Members also get the research protocols for NAD+, dose and vial tracking, and an AI Advisor with cited sources. Try it all free for 7 days, no card needed.

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What is NAD+?

The central redox coenzyme, administered IV or subcutaneously in longevity clinics for cellular energy support.

How it works

Replenishes the NAD+ pool consumed by sirtuins, PARPs and CD38, supporting mitochondrial respiration and DNA repair.

What it has been studied for

Boosts cellular energy production (ATP synthesis)
Activates sirtuins for longevity and cellular repair
Supports DNA damage repair via PARP enzymes
Improves mental clarity, focus, and cognitive function
Combats age-related mitochondrial decline
Supports healthy metabolism and weight management
May improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression/anxiety
Enhances physical endurance and recovery

These are effects reported or investigated in research, much of it preclinical. They are not proven outcomes or health claims.

Published research

Oral precursors (NR/NMN) robustly raise NAD+ in humans; direct NAD+ injection data are limited

Half-life

Very short — minutes

Cautions

IV administration commonly causes flushing, chest pressure and nausea if infused quickly.

Side effects & fixes

Common side effects

—Flushing, chest tightness or a 'pressure' feeling during or right after the dose
—Nausea or stomach cramping
—Headache and fatigue
—Injection-site soreness

Histamine reactions

Flushing and warmth are common, especially when a dose is given quickly.

Common fixes

Inject very slowly (over 5–10 seconds or longer) and start with smaller doses.
Drink water before and after, and have a light snack beforehand.
Dose in the morning; it can be energising and disturb sleep.

Stop and get help

Chest pain or tightness that does not ease within a few minutes of stopping.
Stop and get emergency help for swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, trouble breathing, widespread hives, chest pain or fainting.

Basis: Clinical and community reports. Educational only, not medical advice.

Medication concerns

Theoretical: no human interaction studies

Blood pressure medicines
Fast infusions can cause flushing, lightheadedness and blood pressure changes; slower rates help.
Niacin (vitamin B3) supplements
Similar pathway; high combined doses can add to flushing and stomach upset.
Cancer treatment
NAD+ supports cell energy, including in cancer cells. Ask the oncology team first.
Everything else you take, including supplements
Bring a full list of medicines and supplements to your pharmacist or clinician before starting.

Basis: No formal interaction studies for NAD+ injections; concerns follow from its metabolic role and infusion effects. Educational only, not medical advice. Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without your prescriber.

Protocols & tracking are members-only

Members see the research protocols for NAD+, plan schedules, track every dose and vial, and ask the AI Advisor questions with cited sources. Try every Researcher feature free for 7 days, no card needed.

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