From the Guidelines
NAD shots are not recommended due to limited scientific evidence supporting their claimed benefits and potential side effects. While NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is an essential coenzyme involved in cellular metabolism and energy production, the effectiveness of NAD+ injections for anti-aging, increased energy, improved cognitive function, or addiction treatment remains largely unproven 1. The body naturally produces NAD+, and levels do decline with age, which has sparked interest in supplementation. However, most claims about NAD+ shots are based on preliminary research or theoretical benefits rather than robust clinical trials.
Key Points to Consider
- NAD+ is involved in energy metabolism and its decline with age may contribute to various health issues, including sarcopenia 1
- Experimental depletion of cellular NAD+ induces oxidative damage and mitochondrial instability, which may be relevant to the pathogenesis of sarcopenia 1
- Administration of high doses of vitamin B3 has been shown to prevent loss of cellular NAD+ levels and subsequent cellular damage in animal studies 1
- However, there is limited evidence to support the use of NAD+ shots in humans, and potential side effects include flushing, headache, nausea, fatigue, and injection site reactions
Alternative Options
- Oral supplements containing NAD+ precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) or nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMM) may be a more accessible and less invasive option, though these also have limited evidence supporting their effectiveness
- Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, may be a more effective way to support overall health and well-being, rather than relying on unproven supplements or injections.
From the Research
Benefits of NAD Shot
- NAD shot has shown promise in treating various conditions, including psoriasis and enhancing skeletal muscle activity 2
- Studies have reported a decrease in anxiety conditions, maximum heart rate, and inflammatory cytokines in serum and cerebrospinal fluid after NADH supplementation 3
- NAD+ replenishment has been found to extend healthspan, avoid metabolic syndrome, and reduce blood pressure in preclinical models 4
- NAD infusions have been shown to significantly attenuate substance craving behavior, anxiety, and depression in individuals with Substance Use Disorder (SUD) 5
Safety and Effectiveness
- NADH supplementation has been found to be safe and well-tolerated, with a low incidence of side effects 3
- The most common side effects associated with NADs use are muscle pain, nervous disorders, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and headaches 3
- NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside and nicotinamide mononucleotide, have been found to be safe and tolerable in human studies 6
Potential Applications
- NAD shot may be beneficial in treating age-related conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease 2, 4
- NAD infusions may be effective in treating Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and reducing cravings, anxiety, and depression 5
- NAD+ precursors may be useful in improving physiological function and extending human health span, particularly in older adults and individuals with cardiometabolic disease risk factors 6