NAD⁺
NAD⁺: The Master Molecule of Energy, Longevity, and Cellular Repair
What is NAD+?
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells. It is not a traditional peptide but is often included in peptide-based wellness protocols due to its pivotal role in cellular energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and DNA repair. NAD+ is essential for redox reactions, acting as an electron carrier between metabolic pathways like glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
In recent years, NAD+ has become a focal point in anti-aging, metabolic, and neuroprotective research, with injectable and IV formulations being used to boost systemic NAD+ levels for energy, focus, detoxification, and longevity applications.
How Does NAD+ Work?
NAD+ functions as a coenzyme and signaling molecule, influencing everything from mitochondrial efficiency to gene expression via sirtuin activation. Its levels naturally decline with age, contributing to fatigue, cognitive decline, and decreased cellular repair.
Mechanism of Action:
- Facilitates ATP production in mitochondria by carrying electrons
- Activates sirtuins, enzymes involved in aging, inflammation, and metabolism
- Supports PARPs (poly ADP-ribose polymerases) for DNA repair
- Enhances detoxification and oxidative stress resilience
Benefits of NAD+ Supplementation (Injection or IV)
🔋 Energy & Mitochondrial Function
- Boosts cellular ATP output
- Improves physical and mental energy
- May reduce fatigue in chronic illness models
🧠 Cognitive & Mood Enhancement
- Enhances mental clarity and focus
- Supports neurotransmitter production (dopamine, serotonin)
- May alleviate symptoms of brain fog, anxiety, and depression
🧬 Longevity & Cellular Repair
- Activates sirtuin pathways (SIRT1–7)
- Promotes DNA repair and cellular resilience
- Mimics fasting and caloric restriction benefits
🧪 Detoxification & Inflammation Control
- Assists in glutathione recycling and redox homeostasis
- Reduces systemic inflammation through NAD+/SIRT pathways
- May support liver function and recovery from oxidative damage
NAD+ vs NMN vs NR vs NADH
| Feature | NAD+ (Injected) | NMN (Oral) | NR (Oral) | NADH (Oral/IV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bioavailability | High (direct, systemic) | Moderate (requires conversion) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Speed of Action | Rapid | Slower | Slower | Fast (if IV) |
| Conversion Required | None | Yes (to NAD) | Yes | Minimal |
| Ideal Use | Cellular rejuvenation | Maintenance/Longevity | Maintenance | Cognitive support |
Injectable NAD+ delivers direct, immediate elevation of systemic NAD+ levels, bypassing gut and hepatic metabolism.
Suggested Dosage & Protocol
Injectable (SC or IM) Protocol:
- 50mg to 200mg per day, depending on desired outcome
- Start at 50mg/day and titrate up based on tolerance and effect
IV Protocol (clinical settings):
- 250mg to 750mg, administered over 1–2 hours
- Used weekly or bi-weekly in clinical NAD+ restoration protocols
Cycle Duration:
- Acute phase: 5–14 days daily
- Maintenance phase: 2–3x per week or ongoing low-dose use
Safety Profile of NAD+
NAD+ is naturally produced in the body and considered safe in moderate to high doses under research or medical supervision.
Common Observations:
- Increased mental clarity and alertness
- Transient warmth or light flushing
- Improved physical stamina and recovery
Possible Side Effects:
- Nausea or lightheadedness with rapid injection/infusion
- Headache or GI discomfort at higher doses
- Rare sensitivity to injection site or mild fatigue after high-dose IV
Reference:
- Imai S et al., “The role of NAD in aging and disease.” Cell Metabolism, 2010. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20374965/
Storage Instructions
- Store lyophilized NAD+ at 2–8°C
- Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or sterile saline
- Use within 7–14 days after reconstitution; refrigerate between uses
Stack Recommendations
NAD+ is often stacked with:
- MOTS-c or 5-Amino-1MQ – to support mitochondrial health and metabolic flexibility
- GHK-Cu – for oxidative and cellular repair synergy
- NMN or NR (oral) – to support sustained NAD+ cycling
- Glutathione – for liver support and antioxidant recycling
Is NAD+ Right for Your Research?
If you’re studying cellular aging, energy metabolism, cognitive resilience, or metabolic dysfunction, NAD+ is a core molecule worthy of your protocol. Its role as a keystone coenzyme makes it indispensable in longevity and performance research.
Final Thoughts
NAD+ is not just a supplement—it’s a central regulator of biological vitality. From boosting ATP and brain function to reducing oxidative stress and supporting detox, injectable NAD+ empowers your cells from the core.
Lab of RAD offers high-purity injectable NAD+ for advanced cellular and bioenergetic research.
⚠️ FDA Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational and research purposes only. NAD+ has not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Lab of RAD products are intended for laboratory research use only and are not for human consumption.