Celebrities are talking about their NAD+ supplements and headlines hype up its wide range of potential benefits like sharper focus, better recovery, and a longer healthspan
This quick guide breaks down the daily and weekly dosing of NAD+ injections and nasal spray so you have an idea of what to expect. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before taking supplements or changing your dose.
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Table of Contents
An NAD+ Overview
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is the unsung hero of cellular energy. It’s essential for turning food into fuel, repairing DNA, and keeping your mitochondria—the power plants of your cells—running at full tilt.
As we age, our NAD+ levels drop, which can slow metabolism, reduce muscle function, and increase vulnerability to age-related diseases.
Potential Health Benefits of NAD+
- Improved Mitochondrial Function: Boosting NAD+ improves mitochondrial performance and energy production, as shown in animal studies and early human research.
- Metabolic Health: NAD+ replenishment has been linked to better insulin sensitivity and reduced risk of metabolic syndrome.
- Cardiovascular Support: Supplementing NAD+ or its precursors may lower blood pressure and improve heart function in preclinical and some human studies.
- Neuroprotection: Raising NAD+ levels shows promise for cognitive health, with potential benefits for conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease in early research.
- Tissue Repair and Regeneration: NAD+ restoration has improved muscle endurance, organ protection, and even fertility in animal models.
Typical NAD+ Dosing: Daily and Weekly Schedules
NAD+ may come in three different administration forms, an IV drip, nasal spray, or IM injection. There are also creams and other forms of administration for NAD+; however, for this article, we’ll focus on the first three.
The information provided here is for informational purposes online. Proper personalized dosing should be discussed between you and your medical provider.
| Delivery Method | Typical Dose | Frequency | Notes |
| IV Drip | 500–1500 mg | Daily x 3–10, then weekly/monthly | Slow infusion, best for rapid repletion |
| Nasal Spray | 25 – 30 mg (1 spray) | Daily or twice daily | Convenient, direct brain access |
| IM Injection | 50–100 mg | 1–3 times per week | Gradual increase, maintenance option |
IV Drip
An NAD+ IV drip is administered in a medical setting like a doctor’s office. An intravenous needle delivers NAD+ directly to the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive tract for maximum absorption. The drip is administered over 1 to 4 hours, depending on the protocol and individual comfort.
Typical Dose: 500–1500 mg per session, infused slowly over several hours.
Schedule: Many protocols start with daily sessions for 3–10 days, then switch to weekly or monthly maintenance infusions.
Notes: Slow infusion helps minimize potential side effects like flushing or nausea. IV administration is currently the most beneficial way to raise systemic NAD+ levels, according to clinical research.
Nasal Spray
NAD+ nasal administration takes advantage of the nose’s rich blood supply and thin mucosal lining, allowing NAD+ to be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system.
Typical Dose: Between 25mg and 30mg per spray (1 spray per nostril daily, alternating nostrils).
Alternative Protocol: Some clinics recommend 1–2 sprays per nostril, once or twice daily, depending on concentration.
Notes: Nasal sprays offer convenience and may deliver NAD+ directly to the brain, but human efficacy data is still emerging.
IM Injection
An NAD+ intramuscular (IM) injection is injected directly into a large muscle like the gluteal muscle, thigh, or upper arm. This allows the NAD+ to be gradually absorbed into the bloodstream for systemic effects.
Typical Dose: Start with 50–100 mg per injection, 1–3 times per week.
Intensive Protocol: Some protocols use 250–500 mg daily for 4 days, then shift to twice-weekly injections for maintenance.
Notes: Start low and increase gradually under medical supervision. IM injections can help maintain NAD+ levels between IV sessions.
Potential Side Effects
As with all medications, NAD+ may come with some side effects.
IV Drip: Nausea, flushing, stomach discomfort, fatigue, and, rarely, vein inflammation or allergic reactions. Most side effects are mild and resolve quickly.
Nasal Spray: Mild headaches, nasal irritation, sneezing, or brief dizziness. Data on long-term use is limited.
IM Injection: Injection site redness, tenderness, bruising, or mild fatigue. High doses may cause nausea or abdominal cramps.
Impact on Liver
Protective Effects: NAD+ is crucial for liver health and repair. Animal and early human studies suggest NAD+ supplementation may protect against liver injury, support regeneration, and help mitigate fatty liver disease.
Caution: People with existing liver or kidney disease should avoid NAD+ supplements unless supervised by a healthcare provider, as these organs metabolize NAD+.
No Direct Toxicity: Clinical research has not shown direct liver toxicity at recommended doses, but long-term safety data is still limited.
Take an assessment to determine a personalized plan for you.
Get NAD+ at Your Door
Now that you’re in the know about this cutting-edge drug, you may be ready to try it out.
Start with an online assessment. From there, you’ll be connected with a knowledgeable medical professional to guide you along your health journey.
