Coenzyme / metabolic cofactor (NOT a peptide)
Injectable nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide - an essential coenzyme for cellular energy and DNA repair - given IV or subcutaneously.
| Class / type | Coenzyme / metabolic cofactor (NOT a peptide) |
|---|---|
| Category | Longevity & Cellular |
| Status (Jul 2026) | Research use only |
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is an essential coenzyme every cell uses for energy production and DNA repair. Levels decline with age, which is the rationale behind injecting or infusing it. Note it is a nucleotide, not a peptide - it is grouped here because it is sold in the same channels.
It is used off-label at IV clinics and via compounding pharmacies for energy, mental clarity and anti-aging, and historically in addiction-recovery protocols. It is not an FDA-approved therapy.
Replenishing NAD+ supports mitochondrial energy metabolism, activates sirtuins (SIRT1/SIRT3) that drive mitochondrial biogenesis, and fuels PARP-mediated DNA repair. The theory is that restoring age-related declines improves cellular function.
Direct injectable-NAD+ human trial data are thin. Most of the good evidence is on oral precursors (NMN and NR), which raise NAD+ and show some metabolic benefits. A 2023 randomized trial of subcutaneous NAD+ reported improved self-reported energy and physical performance.
It has not been shown to extend human lifespan, despite the anti-aging marketing.
Users commonly report acute and cumulative boosts in energy and mental clarity, and subcutaneous dosing is liked for at-home use without the discomfort of a fast IV drip.
There is a strong underlying biological rationale, and precursor studies are encouraging.
Rapid IV infusion commonly causes chest tightness, flushing, nausea and cramping - dose-rate dependent - and subcutaneous injection can irritate the site.
Because NAD+ pathways (sirtuins, PARP) intersect with cancer biology, caution is advised for anyone with a cancer history. It is not proven to slow aging, and compounded/IV-clinic quality varies.
Given off-label via IV or subcutaneous injection; IV infusions are typically run slowly to limit the flushing/cramping reaction. Not an approved therapeutic - discuss with a clinician.
Acute and cumulative 'energy and mental clarity'; subQ liked for at-home dosing without IV discomfort.
No FDA approval for NAD+ injection as a therapeutic; used off-label / research-use-only via compounding and IV clinics. (A nucleotide, not a peptide - separate regulatory category.)