If you’ve been anywhere near a med spa’s Instagram feed lately, you’ve probably seen the hot new trend: NAD+ injections. The promise? Increased energy, sharper mind, and the vanquishing of aging’s worst effects—practically the fountain of youth in a syringe. But as with most “miracle” treatments, the reality is more nuanced.
Below, we’ll trek through the published literature (yes, there is some—though not nearly as robust as you might hope), explore possible benefits and risks, and talk about what’s really driving the push for these injections. Let’s dig in.
What Is NAD+?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It plays a major role in metabolism, energy production, and cell repair. As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, and some research suggests that replenishing NAD+ might offer potential benefits in metabolic health, brain function, and longevity
The theory: By topping off NAD+ levels, you may improve mitochondrial function (the “powerhouses” of our cells), potentially leading to better energy and more efficient cellular repair
The Potential Benefits: What the Research Suggests
Cellular Energy and Mitochondrial Support
Small-scale studies indicate that raising NAD+ levels might help cells produce energy more efficiently ). This is one biological basis for the claims of feeling “revitalized” or more energetic.
Neuroprotective Effects
Early research in animal models suggests that NAD+ could support neuronal health, potentially providing a protective effect against neurodegenerative processes ).
A handful of pilot human studies are examining whether NAD+ supplementation might benefit cognitive function in conditions like mild cognitive impairment or early Parkinson’s disease. However, these trials are still in early phases, so conclusions remain tentative.
Addiction Support
Some clinics cite small studies or anecdotal reports suggesting that intravenous NAD+ therapy can aid in substance dependence or withdrawal . These reports are limited, often without robust control groups, making it difficult to draw firm, evidence-based conclusions.
Inflammation and Aging
Anti-aging claims stem from findings that NAD+ could support DNA repair and potentially reduce inflammation ). Pre-clinical data (i.e., animal and laboratory studies) show promise, but large, well-controlled human trials are needed to confirm these benefits definitively. Yet, for every one animal study that ends up showing a benefit in humans there are hundreds that never do.
Bottom Line on Benefits: The existing research, while intriguing, is far from conclusive. Most evidence comes from small, short-term studies; large-scale, randomized, controlled human trials are still lacking
The Risks and Side Effects
Injection and Infusion Risks
As with any intravenous or intramuscular injection, there is a risk of infection or bruising if not done correctly.
Mild side effects like nausea, headache, or flushing may occur during or shortly after an infusion
Overstimulation
Some clinics administer rapid, high-dose infusions to “amplify” the effect. However, higher doses can lead to chest tightness, increased heart rate, or other forms of discomfort. It’s crucial that high-dose therapy be administered by trained professionals who can monitor for adverse events .
Unclear Long-Term Safety
Because the therapy is relatively new on the commercial scene, there’s limited data on safety with repeated use. Thus, the risk profile of ongoing NAD+ injections remains uncertain and there is the possibility it could have unanticipated negative effects.
Bottom Line on Risks: NAD+ is not typically dangerous in standard doses, but high-dose, repeated doses or poorly administered infusions could pose problems. We also lack robust, long-term benefit or safety data.
The Wallet Factor: More Hype Than Help?
Let’s address the elephant in the clinic: money. Med spas and health centers often charge hefty fees—sometimes hundreds or even thousands of dollars per session. NAD+ injections and IV drips are frequently marketed as premium services with extraordinary promises, there are greedy people making serious money of these and their motives are not really your health and well being or at least not exclusively so.
Why the high price?
NAD+ materials can be expensive, but the markups often go well beyond cost. It’s viewed as a “luxury” or “lifestyle” treatment, and that label alone can inflate the price.Marketing vs. Science
The enthusiasm often oversells the research. If you read through clinic websites, you’ll see big claims: “Reverse aging,” “Boost brainpower,” “Melt away fat.” Reality check? The data is not conclusive, and the claims rely on extrapolations from basic science or animal models rather than large clinical trials (3,4). The simple truth is we don't really know what NAD injections do in humans, good or bad with any surety.
Result: The only guaranteed results are to the spa’s bank account rather than your health. If it sounds too good to be true, it likely is—at least until more data come in.
A Few Words of Caution
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
If you’re dealing with specific health concerns—chronic fatigue, metabolic issues, etc.—talk to your doctor or a qualified health professional. NAD+ might be one part of a broader plan, but it shouldn’t be your first stop for a miracle fix.Lifestyle Is Still King
No supplement or injection can replace the fundamentals: balanced nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management. Optimizing these is both cheaper and far more rigorously proven to enhance health and longevityScrutinize Credentials
If you decide to try NAD+ injections, ensure they’re administered in a legitimate, licensed facility by medically trained staff. Ask about dosing, protocols, and monitoring for adverse events and sterility practices. Think twice about getting NAD+ through the mail from compounding pharmacies. Research the pharmacy to see if there are any citations against them.
Final Thoughts
Yes, NAD+ has some compelling scientific underpinnings that make it worth watching in the future of integrative medicine. We can get excited about the possibility that topping off our cells’ NAD+ levels might someday prove beneficial for aging, neuroprotection, and metabolic health. But in 2025, we’re still waiting on robust clinical data that definitively shows these injections offer transformative health benefits—particularly at the steep prices many clinics charge.
So, before you whip out your credit card for that next round of NAD+ drips, consider what you’re truly getting. For now, the biggest boost may be to the clinic’s bank account. If you’re curious and have the means, do your homework, find a reputable provider, and keep your expectations realistic. After all, true vitality rarely comes in a needle—even one filled with NAD+.
References
Brenner C, et al. (2004). Discovery of new pathways of NAD+ metabolism, molecular basis for the effects of nicotinamide riboside and their functional significance. Biochimie, 86(5), 345–352.
Cantó C, et al. (2012). The NAD+ precursor nicotinamide riboside enhances oxidative metabolism and protects against high-fat diet-induced obesity. Cell Metabolism, 15(6), 838–847.
Braidy N, et al. (2019). NAD+ metabolism in brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Critical Reviews in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 54(2), 165–187.
Vaur P, et al. (2017). NAD+ deficiency and defective mitochondrial energy metabolism as pharmacological targets in neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 175, 34–49.
Grant R. (2019). NAD+ and addiction. Journal of Substance Abuse and Therapy, 5(2), 21–28.
Timmerman M. (2018). Adverse Reactions to Intravenous Nutrient Therapy. Integrative Medicine, 17(3), 30–35.
World Health Organization. (2020). Healthy diet, physical activity, and prevention of chronic diseases. (Fact Sheet).
Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or changing any treatment.
Comments
Post a Comment