From the Research
The safety and efficacy of intravenous (IV) NAD therapy in drip bar settings is not well-established, and I strongly advise against this treatment due to insufficient clinical evidence and potential risks. IV NAD therapy typically involves administering doses ranging from 500-1500 mg over 1-4 hours, but these protocols lack standardization and FDA approval. Patients considering this treatment should be aware of reported side effects including chest discomfort, headache, shortness of breath, nausea, and flushing during infusion, as noted in various studies 1, 2, 3. More concerning is the lack of quality control in many drip bar settings, which creates risks of infection, dosing errors, and drug interactions.
While NAD is an essential coenzyme involved in cellular energy production and DNA repair, the theoretical benefits for anti-aging, addiction treatment, and cognitive enhancement remain largely unproven in rigorous clinical trials. A recent systematic review published in the American journal of physiology. Endocrinology and metabolism in 2024 1 found that oral NAD precursors like nicotinamide riboside or nicotinamide mononucleotide might offer safer alternatives with some evidence of bioavailability, though their efficacy also requires further study.
Key points to consider:
- The most recent and highest quality study, a systematic review published in 2024 1, found that NADH supplementation is safe and has a low incidence of side effects, but this study focused on oral administration, not IV therapy.
- Other studies have highlighted the potential benefits of NAD+ precursors in attenuating age-related disorders, but these findings are based on preclinical and limited clinical trials 4, 2, 3, 5.
- The lack of standardization and FDA approval for IV NAD therapy protocols, combined with the risks associated with drip bar settings, make it a treatment that should be approached with caution.
- Anyone interested in NAD therapy should consult with a healthcare provider rather than seeking treatment at commercial drip bars, to discuss the potential benefits and risks and determine the best course of treatment.