What is NAD⁺?
Class: Essential coenzyme found in all living cells; central to redox reactions, mitochondrial function, and cellular signaling.
Mechanism:
- Functions as a redox carrier in metabolic pathways (glycolysis, TCA cycle, oxidative phosphorylation).
- Critical for sirtuin and PARP activation → influences DNA repair, mitochondrial biogenesis, and longevity pathways.
- NAD⁺ levels decline with age, contributing to metabolic slowdown, neurodegeneration, and impaired recovery.
- Restoring NAD⁺ supports energy metabolism, cellular resilience, and healthy aging.
Primary focus:
- Mitochondrial health and ATP production.
- DNA repair and anti-aging.
- Neuroprotection and cognitive support.
- Recovery from metabolic or physical stress.
🔹 Oral Dosage
Range:
- NAD⁺ itself is poorly absorbed orally.
- Precursors (NMN, NR, Niacinamide): 250–1000 mg/day are common to raise NAD⁺ levels indirectly.
Notes: Direct oral NAD⁺ is not reliable; precursors are the preferred oral approach.
🔹 Injectable / IV / Subcutaneous Dosage (most common for direct NAD⁺ use)
Range:
- IV infusions (clinical use): 250–1000 mg per session, infused slowly over 1–4 hours.
- Subcutaneous/IM research use: 50–300 mg, 2–4x per week.
- Low-dose optimization: 40–100 mg 2–3x per week (anecdotal for energy and recovery).
Rationale: Direct delivery bypasses poor oral bioavailability and provides immediate mitochondrial support.
🔹 Cycle Length
- Wellness/anti-aging use: Ongoing with weekly or monthly maintenance dosing.
- Intensive support (fatigue, recovery, cognitive repair): 4–8 weeks at higher frequency, followed by taper or maintenance.
🔹 Optimal Dosing Window
- Morning or early afternoon → supports daytime energy, avoids overstimulation at night.
- IV sessions are typically scheduled during the day for better tolerance.
✅ Educational Integration Example
- Example protocol: 100 mg NAD⁺ SC, 3x/week (Mon/Wed/Fri) for 8 weeks.
- Paired with: NMN 500 mg daily + CoQ10 + PQQ for mitochondrial synergy.
🔹 Stacking Strategy (Educational / Complementary)
Since NAD⁺ is a master metabolic regulator, stacking focuses on amplifying energy production, resilience, and repair:
🔸 Mitochondrial & Energy Support:
- MOTS-c, AICAR, L-Carnitine: Enhance fatty acid oxidation and ATP output alongside NAD⁺.
- CoQ10 + PQQ: Synergize in electron transport and mitochondrial biogenesis.
🔸 Longevity & DNA Repair:
- Epitalon: Complements sirtuin activity with telomere regulation.
- FOXO4-DRI or Senolytics: Cellular cleanup alongside NAD⁺-driven repair.
- Resveratrol or Quercetin: Sirtuin activators that leverage NAD⁺ availability.
🔸 Neuroprotection & Cognitive Support:
- Methylene Blue, Semax, Dihexa: Combine metabolic and synaptic support.
- Lion’s Mane: Stimulates NGF and works synergistically with NAD⁺-driven repair.
Rationale: NAD⁺ acts as a foundational metabolic and repair molecule, so stacks emphasize mitochondrial cofactors, senolytics, and cognitive enhancers.
⚠️ Safety Notes:
- Rapid IV pushes can cause flushing, chest tightness, or anxiety; slow infusion is key.
- High-dose NAD⁺ may cause headaches, GI upset, or fatigue in some users.
- Long-term human trials are limited—precursors (NMN/NR) have stronger safety data.
Studied in Humans? Yes
FDA Approved? No
Allowed for 503a Compounding Pharmacy? Yes
Rory’s Comment: Thumbs Up
Disclaimer: Do not rely on any dosing information provided, this is for educational and research only. Always double and triple check alternative references for education. Please consult with healthcare provider for your specific dosing and protocol if applicable.