NAD+
Redox coenzyme
The central coenzyme of cellular energy metabolism, studied for age-related decline, DNA repair and sirtuin activity.
How it works
NAD+ is not a peptide but a central redox coenzyme required throughout cellular metabolism. It functions as an electron carrier in oxidative phosphorylation, the process by which cells generate the majority of their usable energy, and its availability directly limits the rate of that process.
Beyond energy metabolism, NAD+ is the required substrate for sirtuin enzymes, which regulate gene expression tied to cellular stress resistance, and for PARP enzymes involved in DNA repair. Declining NAD+ levels with age are proposed to reduce the efficiency of both of these systems.
Research using NAD+ precursors and direct NAD+ administration reports improvements in mitochondrial function and various metabolic markers, though the literature notes that optimal human dosing, administration rate, and delivery route remain active areas of investigation, with rapid administration consistently associated with flushing and chest pressure.
What research has shown
Precursor and direct-NAD+ studies report improved mitochondrial function and metabolic markers; optimal human dosing remains an active research question.
Reported ranges in the literature
Low end
50 mg 2× weekly
Optimal
100 mg daily or every other day
High end
250 to 500 mg per session (slow administration)
Frequency reported in the literature: Daily to 2× weekly. Note: Rapid administration is consistently associated with flushing and chest pressure in reports.
Frequently asked questions
What is NAD+?
NAD+ is a coenzyme central to cellular energy metabolism, DNA repair, and sirtuin activity, studied in the context of aging and mitochondrial function.
How does NAD+ differ from NAD+ precursors like NMN?
Direct NAD+ administration supplies the coenzyme itself, while precursors require conversion through cellular pathways before becoming active NAD+. Research literature discusses trade-offs in bioavailability and administration route between the two approaches.
What does the research show?
Studies report improved mitochondrial function and metabolic markers with NAD+ or precursor supplementation, though optimal human dosing protocols remain an active research question.
What is the most reported acute effect?
Rapid administration is consistently associated with flushing and chest pressure in reports, which is why slow administration protocols are emphasized in the literature.
How long are research blocks typically?
Published research designs range from daily to twice-weekly dosing, generally continued over multiple weeks to assess metabolic markers.
Related compounds
Further reading
Research use only
All content on this page is general reference information for laboratory research contexts. It is not medical advice, is not intended to direct human use, and does not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare professional. Not for human consumption. Must be 18+.