Intravenous (IV) NAD+

**Searching for that fountain of youth?** We've got you covered! Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) intravenous (IV) supplementation is a promising optimization of one's health for age-related conditions.

What is NAD?

Take yourself back to school biology (sorry to ask). If you can recall learning about the Krebs Cycle, the electron transport chain, and how cellular functions work, you may remember hearing the letters NADH or NAD+ many times when navigating those pathways. Known as NAD+ in its oxidized state and NADH in its reduced state, it was first described more than a century ago as a vital molecule for metabolic reduction-oxidation reactions in the mitochondria (power houses of our cells).

NAD+ is a precursor to Niacin (vitamin B3) and, more importantly, a cofactor regulating many important cellular functions, including expression of transcription factors, gene expression and DNA repair. Sirtuins are a type of signaling proteins which influence many important cellular processes, including inflammation, bioenergetics, circadian rhythm generation, and cell growth, all fundamental to cellular aging. Sirtuins can only function in the presence of NAD+. These pathways place NAD at the center of cellular metabolism, mitochondrial function, and biological processes of aging.

What can NAD+ supplementation offer you for your health?

As mentioned above, NAD+ is vital for cellular function, DNA repair, and reducing inflammation. That being said, NAD+ can help slow down that aging process and reduce the risk for age related diseases and conditions.
Cells in the brain need NAD+ just as much as anywhere in the body. By improving mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress, NAD+ can help to protect neurons in the brain from damage and promote healthy brain function. This can lead to improved cognitive function, memory, and overall mental clarity. Bye brain fog!
Bringing it back to good ole biology class again, recall that ATP is the energy generated in our cells. NAD+ is needed to boost ATP production and overall cellular metabolism. Therefore, one of NAD+'s primary benefits is increasing energy and overall stamina. This can be especially advantageous for athletes and anyone looking to improve their muscle function and athletic performance.
Cell and animal studies show that NAD+ is involved in regulating immune system activity. NAD+ promotes the production and activity of immune cells which can lead to improvement of overall health and reduce the risk of infections and other illnesses.
Given its involvement within so many metabolic pathways in the body, NAD+ is postulated to influence weight loss and metabolism. Some studies also report improvement in lipid profile, exercise capacity, and muscle fiber composition despite a sedentary lifestyle. It too can have a positive impact on appetite regulation and cravings.
NAD+ IV therapy has also been examined as a potential additional treatment for anxiety and depression. As a synthesizer for neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, NAD+ can play a key role in regulating mood.
NAD+ IV infusion therapy has shown to be effective in treating addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Again, NAD+’s promotion of neurotransmitters and reducing oxidative stress validates that NAD+ can help to reduce cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and improve overall well-being during the recovery process.

Who Can Benefit?

Everyone could benefit from NAD+ IV infusions. It has, however, been shown to be effective for optimizing the health in those with: Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia or chronic pain syndrome, neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's, metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity, inflammatory disorders such as arthritis and Crohn's disease, addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

Why IV Administration?

Oral supplementation, like anything orally supplemented, has variability with absorption rates dependent upon many factors within the GI system. IV administration allows us to administer NAD+ directly into the cells for use (where its main function lies).

How Does IV Administration Work?

The length of a typical NAD+ IV infusion therapy session can vary depending on the dosage, individual, and patient tolerance. It generally lasts anywhere from 2-4+ hours.

During the session, you will be monitored closely by a healthcare professional (Physician Assistant/Nurse Practitioner) to ensure that you are tolerating the treatment well. Most people report feeling a sense of relaxation and well-being during the treatment, although, some may experience mild side effects such as nausea, fatigue, brain fog, headaches, indigestion, or cramping. Slowing down the infusion can usually mitigate these effects.

Your cellular health and energy levels may improve gradually over the course of several weeks following NAD+ IV infusion therapy, and your healthcare provider can provide guidance on how to maintain these benefits.

Anything I Need to Do Before?

It is vital to prepare your body by hydrating and eating a healthy meal. Given the duration of the infusion, this is a pertinent step to ensure the infusion goes smoothly. Snacks and juice will be available if needed. You should also avoid caffeine and alcohol for at least 24 hours before the treatment, as these can interfere with the absorption of NAD+.

What Happens Following My Infusion?

There is no downtime with IV NAD+ administration. You can continue with your normal activities of daily living following.

After the treatment, it is important to continue to hydrate and eat a healthy meal to help your body recover. You may also want to rest for a few hours to allow your body to fully absorb the NAD+ therapy.

After the treatment, some people may experience mild side effects such as fatigue or headache, but these usually go away within a few days.