NAD+: what the research shows
Not a peptide, but often mentioned alongside them: a molecule every cell needs to make energy.
Also known as Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide
At a glance
NAD+ itself is not an approved medicine. Related vitamin B3 compounds, such as nicotinamide riboside, are sold as supplements.
This compound is not a peptide, but is often discussed alongside them.
What is NAD+?
NAD+ is a coenzyme, a helper molecule found in every living cell. Your body makes it from vitamin B3.
How does NAD+ work?
Cells use NAD+ to turn food into energy and to run repair enzymes. Levels tend to fall with age, which is why researchers are interested in raising them.
What does the research show?
- A 2024 review explains how NAD+ levels fall with age and in some diseases, and the ways researchers are trying to raise them.
- Studies of NAD+ boosters in people are mostly small, with mixed results.
Known risks and side effects
- NAD+ injections and drips are not approved, and their benefits and safety are not well studied.
Is NAD+ approved?
Mostly studied in cells and animals, with little or no proper testing in people.
NAD+ itself is not an approved medicine. Related vitamin B3 compounds, such as nicotinamide riboside, are sold as supplements.
From the community
Watch: NAD+ and related science
Start with the compound discussion, then use the background lesson to understand its biology. Each card explains its connection. Recordings may predate later findings or regulatory changes.
Progress, Potential, and Possibilities
NAD coenzymes, metabolic stress and new interventions
A leading NAD scientist on what the molecule does and what boosting it might achieve.
Interview with Charles Brenner, PhD, NAD researcher at City of Hope
Discusses the compound
Discusses NAD+ or its clinical context. Read the original studies linked here for the exact formulation, population and outcomes.
Khan Academy
Mitochondria: structure and cellular energy
A foundation for reading mitochondrial research. It does not demonstrate a benefit from any experimental compound.
Biology education
Related biology
Background on mitochondria and cellular energy for understanding NAD+. It does not demonstrate benefits of this compound or formulation.
Sources and references
- Roles of NAD+ in Health and AgingLautrup et al. · Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine · 2024
VETUD Learn explains published research in plain language. It is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before starting, stopping or changing any treatment.
In the research shop
Check the catalog for related laboratory research materials. These products are separate from the approved medicines and clinical trial formulations discussed here.
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