From the Guidelines
I would not recommend giving NAD+ with glutathione to an 80-year-old male being treated for bladder cancer without consulting his oncologist first. These supplements, while potentially beneficial for general cellular health, could potentially interfere with cancer treatments. NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is involved in cellular energy production and DNA repair, while glutathione is a powerful antioxidant. The concern is that these supplements might protect cancer cells from treatments designed to damage them, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Cancer treatments often work by creating oxidative stress and DNA damage in rapidly dividing cells, and these supplements could theoretically counteract those effects.
According to the most recent guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) 1, the management of bladder cancer is based on the pathologic findings of the biopsy specimen, with attention to histology, grade, and depth of invasion. These factors are used to estimate the probability of recurrence and progression to a more advanced stage. The guidelines emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, and systemic therapy.
Additionally, at age 80, there may be other health considerations including kidney function, medication interactions, and overall frailty that could make supplementation riskier. Before starting any supplement regimen during cancer treatment, the patient should have a detailed discussion with his oncologist about potential risks and benefits specific to his cancer type, stage, and treatment protocol. The NCCN guidelines also highlight the importance of considering the patient's overall health and comorbidities when making treatment decisions 1.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the potential risks and benefits of supplementing with NAD+ and glutathione in this patient include:
- The potential for these supplements to interfere with cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy
- The patient's overall health and comorbidities, including kidney function and medication interactions
- The importance of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, and systemic therapy
- The need for a detailed discussion with the patient's oncologist about potential risks and benefits specific to his cancer type, stage, and treatment protocol.
It is essential to prioritize the patient's safety and well-being, and to make informed decisions based on the most recent and highest-quality evidence available 1.
From the Research
NAD+ and Glutathione Supplementation in Bladder Cancer
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that NAD+ and glutathione supplementation is beneficial or safe for an 80-year-old male being treated for bladder cancer 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, studies have shown that NAD+ plays a crucial role in cell homeostasis and is involved in various energy production processes, including the Krebs cycle, fatty acid oxidation, glycolysis, and serine biosynthesis 3.
- NAD+ levels have been found to be decreased in bladder cancer patients, and nicotinamide metabolism is altered in these patients 4.
- Some studies suggest that NAD+ supplementation may have anti-cancer and anti-aging effects, but more research is needed to confirm these findings 5, 6.
- A systematic review of randomized clinical trials found that NAD+ supplementation was well-tolerated and had some clinical benefits, such as improved quality of life and decreased anxiety, but also had some side effects, including muscle pain, nervous disorders, and headaches 6.
Considerations for Supplementation
- Before considering NAD+ and glutathione supplementation, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the potential benefits and risks, especially in the context of bladder cancer treatment 2, 6.
- The safety and effectiveness of NAD+ supplementation in different clinical conditions, including bladder cancer, need to be further investigated 6.
- More research is needed to understand the role of NAD+ in bladder cancer and its potential as a therapeutic target 3, 4, 5.