Experts Question Safety and Efficacy of Popular NAD Treatments

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) has emerged as a focal point in the wellness industry, often promoted as a miracle solution for longevity, cognitive function, and disease prevention. Its rapid rise in popularity, particularly among health enthusiasts, raises important questions about its actual benefits and safety. Many individuals are now seeking treatments such as NAD intravenous (IV) drips, capsules, and skincare products, confident they are investing in a pathway to enhanced vitality.

While the appeal of NAD is undeniable, experts urge caution. I spoke with three professionals in health and wellness—Dr. Harpal Bains, a longevity doctor; registered nutritionist Sahar Berjis; and Dr. Sophie Shotter, an aesthetic physician and host of the Age Well podcast—to investigate whether NAD can genuinely reverse biological age or if its touted benefits are mere marketing hype.

The Science Behind NAD

NAD has been a cornerstone of biochemistry since the mid-20th century. Researchers discovered its crucial role in energy production and cellular repair. In the early 2000s, geneticist David Sinclair popularized findings that linked NAD+ to the activation of sirtuins, often referred to as “longevity genes.” The biohacking community quickly seized on this information, with entrepreneurs and athletes embracing NAD as a way to enhance focus and stave off aging.

Berjis explains that, “NAD is found in every cell of your body. It plays a crucial role in energy production, helping your mitochondria turn food into fuel.” This molecule exists in two forms: NAD+ (the active form) and NADH (the reduced form). The emphasis in supplements and IV treatments tends to be on NAD+, as it is believed to directly facilitate cellular repair and renewal.

Dr. Bains highlights the molecule’s vital function: “NAD is essential for energy production and also activates sirtuins—key genes linked to longevity.” He notes that levels of NAD naturally decline with age, which can lead to decreased energy, poor sleep, and mental fatigue.

Delivery Methods and Their Effectiveness

As the wellness industry evolves, NAD+ drips have gained popularity, especially in urban wellness clinics across cities like London, Los Angeles, and New York. Marketed as an effective way to “refuel” cells, these treatments can cost anywhere from £250 to £1000. Despite their attractive marketing, experts express skepticism about their actual effectiveness.

Berjis explains that while capsules and powders aim to boost NAD+ levels indirectly through precursors like NMN or NR, IV drips are designed for direct infusion, bypassing the digestive system for faster absorption. However, Dr. Shotter asserts that this delivery method lacks efficacy.

“The first thing I should say is that taking actual NAD+ in any form doesn’t work,” she states. “NAD+ is inherently unstable—it doesn’t survive outside of a freezer for more than about 30 minutes.” Dr. Shotter emphasizes that no company has demonstrated the ability to stabilize NAD in liquid or ingestible forms.

She further clarifies that NAD+ does not effectively cross cell membranes when infused, meaning it cannot impact cellular functions as intended. “More worryingly, there is a new study about to be published showing that NAD+ inside the veins causes inflammation,” Dr. Shotter adds, suggesting that these trendy treatments may not only be ineffective but potentially harmful.

Although the marketing of NAD often glosses over potential risks, Berjis points out that side effects can include nausea, headaches, and muscle cramps. Dr. Bains advises caution, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions, noting that NAD can impose additional stress on the kidneys and liver.

The booming demand for NAD treatments raises an essential question: Why are these services promoted so aggressively despite conflicting research? The answer lies in the lucrative wellness industry, where IV therapy has become a sought-after service for those looking for quick fixes to fatigue and burnout.

Alternative Strategies for Boosting NAD

Experts recommend focusing on dietary and lifestyle changes to enhance NAD levels naturally rather than relying solely on expensive treatments. Berjis suggests starting with supplements that are precursors to NAD, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) or nicotinamide riboside (NR), at doses of 250–500 mg daily from reputable brands. She also encourages incorporating lifestyle practices like quality sleep, physical activity, and time-restricted eating to support the body’s natural NAD pathways.

Dr. Shotter concurs, advocating for a holistic approach that includes dietary sources of NAD precursors. Foods rich in tryptophan, NMN, and niacin (vitamin B3)—such as beef, eggs, avocados, and salmon—can help boost NAD levels naturally.

While NAD does play a significant role in the body, the consensus among the experts is that enhancing levels through outside sources like IV drips is unlikely to yield substantial long-term health benefits. Instead, maintaining a balanced lifestyle remains the most effective strategy for promoting longevity and overall well-being.

In conclusion, as the wellness industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for consumers to remain informed about the efficacy and safety of popular treatments like NAD. The allure of quick fixes can be tempting, but foundational health practices should not be overlooked in the pursuit of vitality.