NAD+
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is an essential coenzyme found in every living cell. It plays a central role in energy metabolism, DNA repair, gene expression, and cellular signaling. NAD+ levels naturally decline with age, and restoring them has become a major focus of longevity research. Injectable NAD+ bypasses the GI tract for higher bioavailability compared to oral precursors like NMN or NR.
Mechanism of Action
NAD+ is a critical substrate for sirtuins (SIRT1-7), a family of enzymes involved in DNA repair, inflammation regulation, and mitochondrial function. It also serves as a coenzyme for PARP enzymes (involved in DNA damage repair) and CD38 (involved in immune cell signaling). By directly replenishing cellular NAD+ pools, injectable NAD+ supports mitochondrial electron transport chain function, enhances ATP production, and activates longevity-associated pathways.
Dosage Overview
Dose Range
20 mg – 120 mg
Route
subcutaneous
Frequency
Weekly
Cycle Length
4–12 weeks
Reconstitution
Typical Dosage (Research)
Subcutaneous injection, typically 2–3 times per week. Start low and escalate: Twice per week protocol: Week 1: 20 mg (0.1 ml), Week 2: 40 mg (0.2 ml), Week 3+: 120 mg maintenance (0.6 ml). Three times per week protocol (e.g. Mon/Wed/Fri): Week 1: 20 mg (0.1 ml), Week 2: 40 mg (0.2 ml), Week 3+: 80 mg maintenance (0.4 ml). Volumes above assume 200 mg/ml concentration (100 mg vial reconstituted with 0.5 ml BAC water). Inject slowly — rapid administration increases flushing and nausea. Avoid back-to-back injection days. IV infusion (clinical setting): 250–750 mg per session over 2–4 hours.
Subcutaneous injection is the most practical route for self-administration. Inject slowly — rapid administration increases side effects (flushing, chest tightness, nausea). Some users split larger doses across multiple daily injections to improve tolerance. IV infusions provide the highest bioavailability but require a clinical setting. Store reconstituted NAD+ refrigerated and protect from light. NAD+ solutions are pH-sensitive; use bacteriostatic water for reconstitution.
Considerations for Men & Women
Women: NAD+ metabolism may be influenced by estrogen levels — some research suggests postmenopausal women may benefit more from NAD+ supplementation due to accelerated NAD+ decline. No specific dose adjustments, but start conservatively. May support fertility through improved oocyte quality (emerging research). Pregnancy safety not established — avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Men: NAD+ supports testosterone production pathways indirectly through improved mitochondrial function and sirtuin activation. May support fertility through improved sperm motility and DNA integrity. No sex-specific dose adjustments needed.
Individual responses vary. These notes reflect general trends from research literature and are not medical advice.
Quick Calculator
Concentration: 200 mg/ml
Volume to inject: 0.10 ml
Syringe units (U-100): 10.0 units
Pre-filled with NAD+ defaults. Adjust values as needed.
Side Effects & Risks
Flushing and warmth (very common, especially at higher doses or fast injection rates). Nausea and mild GI discomfort. Chest tightness or pressure during injection (usually transient). Injection site pain or redness. Headache. These side effects are typically dose-dependent and diminish with slower administration and repeated use.
Limited long-term clinical data on injectable NAD+ specifically. Theoretical concern about supporting growth of existing cancers (NAD+ supports rapidly dividing cells). Not FDA-approved as a therapeutic. Quality varies significantly between compounding sources — third-party testing is important. High doses may cause significant discomfort. Should be used cautiously in individuals with active malignancies.
Who Uses NAD+
Those pursuing anti-aging and longevity protocols. Individuals experiencing age-related cognitive decline or fatigue. Athletes seeking enhanced recovery and mitochondrial function. People recovering from substance abuse (NAD+ IV therapy is used in some addiction treatment protocols). Biohackers optimizing cellular health.
Frequently Asked Questions
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