What is NAD IV Therapy and Should You Consider It?
In upscale wellness clinics and medical spas across America’s affluent neighborhoods, a new kind of intravenous treatment has gained prominence among those seeking the latest in regenerative medicine. NAD IV therapy – or intravenous NAD therapy – represents a growing trend in the world of alternative wellness treatments, where patients receive the vital cellular compound Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (or NAD) through direct intravenous administration.
NAD is a coenzyme found naturally in every cell of the human body, playing a key role in cellular function and energy production. Often called a “helper molecule,” it assists in hundreds of metabolic processes, particularly in converting food into cellular energy and maintaining healthy DNA.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- What NAD IV therapy is and how it works to deliver NAD+ directly into the bloodstream
- The potential benefits of NAD IV therapy, from addiction recovery and cognitive enhancement to anti-aging and cellular health optimization
- The safety considerations, side effects, and costs associated with NAD IV infusions
- How NAD IV therapy compares to oral NAD supplements in terms of efficacy, convenience, and scientific support
What is NAD IV Therapy?
NAD IV therapy, sometimes referred to as NAD infusion or IV drip, typically takes place in medical clinics or specialized wellness centers, where patients recline in comfortable chairs for sessions lasting anywhere from two to four hours. A healthcare provider inserts an IV line into the patient’s arm, connecting them to a drip containing a solution of NAD+ (the oxidized form of NAD) mixed with saline.
The lengthy duration of the treatment isn’t due to the volume of fluid – rather, it’s intentionally slowed to minimize the side effects that can occur with rapid administration. Some clinics offer private rooms equipped with entertainment systems and other amenities to help pass the time.
What began as a niche treatment in high-end coastal clinics has expanded into a nationwide phenomenon. Prices typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per session, with many practitioners recommending initial protocols of 4-10 treatments followed by periodic maintenance sessions.
Medical spas, integrative medicine clinics, and even traditional medical practices have begun offering NAD IV therapy. NAD treatment has found particular popularity in wealthy enclaves from Beverly Hills to the Hamptons, where it joins a growing menu of wellness interventions aimed at an affluent clientele.
The therapy exists in a regulatory gray area – while the administration of IV treatments requires medical supervision, the NAD compounds themselves are typically obtained through compounding pharmacies. Practitioners range from medical doctors to naturopathic physicians, depending on state regulations regarding IV therapy administration.
Unlike traditional medical treatments, NAD IV therapy often operates in the cash-pay market, outside the usual insurance frameworks. This has contributed to its reputation as a luxury wellness service rather than a conventional medical treatment.
In clinics across the country, practitioners present this therapy as part of a broader approach to cellular health and regeneration, positioning it alongside other emerging treatments in the rapidly expanding field of longevity medicine.
Takeaway: NAD IV therapy is a lengthy (2-4 hour) intravenous treatment administered in medical clinics and wellness centers, where NAD+ mixed with saline is slowly dripped into patients to minimize side effects.
Does NAD IV Really Work to Increase NAD+ Levels?
When discussing treatments to increase NAD+, it’s important to understand the distinction between intracellular (iNAD+) and extracellular (eNAD+) forms, since they have dramatically different concentrations and roles.
Intracellularly, NAD+ is abundant, typically ranging from micromolar to millimolar concentrations1. In contrast, extracellular NAD+ levels are remarkably low, measuring approximately 500 times less concentrated than intracellular levels2.
When NAD is administered intravenously, it primarily affects extracellular NAD+ levels. Research demonstrates that IV NAD+ infusion has minimal direct impact on intracellular NAD+ concentrations. In fact, studies show that during a continuous NAD+ infusion, plasma levels only significantly increased at the 6-hour mark, with a 398% rise relative to baseline3.
The body does not directly incorporate IV NAD+ into cellular NAD+ pools. Instead, metabolites like nicotinamide (NAM), nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) can potentially enter cells and be used to regenerate NAD+4.
Recent research indicates that IV NAD+ may not significantly elevate whole blood NAD+ levels within 24 hours, suggesting limited cellular penetration and utilization5. This underscores the complexity of directly increasing cellular NAD+ through IV administration.
Moreover, our own research at Jinfiniti has found that NAD IV therapy does not significantly increase NAD levels inside the cells for several reasons.
- First, the amount of infused NAD+ and the frequency of infusions do not provide sufficient NAD+.
- Second, NAD+ is rapidly degraded in the bloodstream within hours.
- Third, the NAD+ molecule is too large to penetrate the cells.
Take a look at the graph below.
The use of 750 mg of intravenous NAD+ infusion over 5 sessions did not increase intracellular NAD levels (indicated by the blue bars in the chart).
Meanwhile, oral NAD supplementation for four weeks optimized NAD levels in 7 of 8 test subjects and significantly boosted NAD in others (indicated by the green bars in the chart).ur weeks optimized NAD levels in 7 of 8 test subjects and significantly boosted NAD in others (green bars).
This suggests that NAD+ infusions may not be an ideal option for those looking to increase energy, improve performance, or extend longevity.
Takeaway: IV NAD+ therapy primarily affects extracellular NAD+ levels but has minimal direct impact on intracellular NAD+ concentrations.
Potential Benefits of NAD Therapy
While the jury is still out in the scientific community on the full scope of NAD IV therapy’s effectiveness, proponents of this treatment cite a range of potential benefits that have attracted a dedicated following among wellness enthusiasts and those seeking alternative approaches to health optimization. These benefits are mostly attributable to an increase in NAD+ levels, which, as mentioned above, is more nuanced than some may think.
Addiction Recovery
Clinical studies on NAD+ IV therapy for addiction remain limited, but one review indicates potential as an anti-addiction intervention by addressing multiple neurobiological aspects of addiction. Previous clinical reports have documented benefits of IV NAD+ infusion in alcohol and opioid withdrawal, with researchers observing significant improvements in reducing cravings and alleviating withdrawal symptoms6.
Energy and Metabolism
Practitioners report that many patients seek out NAD therapy primarily for its effects on energy levels. The treatment’s supporters point to NAD’s fundamental role in cellular energy production7, likening it to recharging a battery at the cellular level. Some clinics report that patients experience increased energy levels lasting days or even weeks following treatment.
Cognitive Function
In Silicon Valley boardrooms and Wall Street offices, executives have turned to NAD therapy in pursuit of supercharged mental clarity. Advocates suggest that the treatment may support brain function by helping maintain healthy neurons and potentially reducing inflammation8. Some patients report experiencing improved focus and mental acuity, though these effects remain largely anecdotal.
Athletic Recovery
Professional athletes and fitness enthusiasts have embraced NAD therapy as part of their recovery protocols. The treatment’s proposed ability to support cellular repair and energy production has made it popular among those seeking to optimize their physical performance and reduce recovery time between intense training sessions.
Age-Related Concerns
Perhaps the most intriguing area of interest lies in NAD’s role in aging. Research has shown that NAD levels naturally decline with age9, leading some scientists to investigate whether restoring these levels might influence the aging process. The potential anti-aging effects of NAD IV have certainly captured the attention of the longevity medicine community and warrant further exploration.
Cellular Health
Proponents believe that NAD IV therapy may help support overall cellular health by improving mitochondrial function – the energy-producing centers within cells. This could potentially have wide-ranging effects on various aspects of health, from metabolism to tissue repair.
Metabolic Function
Clinics report that some patients seek NAD therapy for its potential to support healthy metabolism. The treatment’s role in cellular energy production has led to speculation about its effects on metabolic health, though research in this area continues to evolve.
How Safe is NAD IV Treatment?
While many practitioners consider the treatment generally safe when administered properly, patients should be aware of various side effects and safety considerations before pursuing IV infusion.
During IV NAD therapy sessions, patients frequently report a range of temporary symptoms that typically subside once the infusion is complete or shortly thereafter:
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Moderate to severe headache
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea and stomach discomfort
- Flushing of the face
- Racing heart or palpitations
- Anxiety or jitteriness
- Mild dizziness
- Temporary changes in vision
The speed of NAD administration plays a significant role in the intensity of side effects. Experienced practitioners typically begin with lower doses and slower infusion rates, gradually increasing them based on patient tolerance. This approach, while extending treatment duration, helps minimize adverse reactions.
NAD IV therapy has been observed to elevate high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels, with approximately 70% of recipients showing a 3- to 10-fold increase in this inflammation marker. Given these effects, monitoring hs-CRP and implementing inflammation control measures is recommended for patient safety.
Medical professionals stress that NAD IV therapy should only be administered in appropriate clinical settings with proper medical supervision. The treatment requires careful screening of patients for underlying health conditions that might contraindicate its use.
Certain populations may face higher risks when receiving NAD therapy. People with kidney or liver conditions, heart problems, or those taking specific medications should exercise particular caution. Pregnant or nursing women are typically advised to avoid the treatment due to limited safety data.
The medical community notes that while short-term side effects are well-documented, the long-term safety profile of regular NAD IV therapy remains under investigation. Some healthcare providers express concern about the lack of extensive longitudinal studies examining the effects of repeated treatments.
The rapidly growing NAD therapy industry has raised concerns about quality control and standardization. The source and purity of NAD compounds can vary between facilities, potentially affecting both safety and efficacy. Patients are advised to thoroughly research facilities and verify the credentials of practitioners administering the treatment.
Takeaway: NAD IV therapy can cause temporary side effects like headaches and nausea, with severity depending on infusion speed and individual tolerance. While generally considered safe under proper medical supervision, certain populations face higher risks, and long-term effects remain under study.
How Much Does NAD IV Therapy Cost?
NAD IV therapy costs can vary widely based on dosage, location, clinic expertise, and additional treatments. On average, the cost ranges from $200 to $1,000 per session. For longer-term treatment plans, costs can accumulate significantly. Many providers recommend multiple sessions over several days or weeks for optimal results, which can drive up the total expense. For example, a series of treatments over 2-3 days could cost $1,500 to $3,000 or more.
Some clinics offer package deals or membership options for regular treatments, which may provide some cost savings for ongoing therapy. It’s also important to note that NAD IV therapy is generally not covered by insurance, as it’s considered an elective treatment.
Is NAD IV FDA-Approved?
NAD IV therapy is not FDA-approved for the treatment of any specific condition. This does not mean the treatment is illegal or unsafe when administered properly. NAD therapy falls under the category of dietary supplements, which are not required to undergo FDA review for safety or effectiveness before being marketed. The FDA has acknowledged NAD therapy’s potential efficacy for treating certain conditions like benzodiazepine dependence, opiate withdrawal, and chronic fatigue, though it has not formally approved it.
NAD Infusions vs Oral NAD Supplements
NAD supplementation offers two primary approaches: oral NAD supplements and IV therapy, each with distinct advantages for individuals seeking to boost cellular energy and combat aging. Oral supplements provide a convenient, cost-effective method for gradually increasing NAD+ levels, with studies showing potential increases up to 142% after two weeks of consistent use10. These supplements are typically more affordable, ranging from $20 to $150 per bottle, and can be easily integrated into daily routines.
In contrast, intravenous therapy delivers a rapid, direct NAD+ boost directly into the bloodstream, making it potentially more suitable for acute health conditions or intensive recovery needs. However, this method comes with significant drawbacks, including the higher costs and potential side effects outlined above.
It’s worth noting that the majority of peer-reviewed studies have focused on oral NAD+ supplements rather than intravenous delivery. This research disparity stems from several practical factors. Oral supplement studies offer advantages in scientific settings: they’re easier to control, more cost-effective to conduct, and more practical for the large-scale, long-term trials needed to establish clinical efficacy. Major research institutions have primarily concentrated their investigations on oral NAD+ precursors such as NMN and NR.
Many of the benefits attributed to IV NAD+ therapy are extrapolated from studies on oral supplements, which often have different bioavailability and physiological effects. This disconnect has led some researchers to call for more rigorous investigation of the IV delivery method, particularly given its growing popularity and higher cost compared to oral alternatives.
Takeaway: Oral supplements are backed by more extensive research and clinical trials, while IV therapy’s effects are less thoroughly studied despite its growing popularity.
Should You Get NAD IV Therapy?
When considering IV therapy, it’s important to carefully weigh the potential NAD+ benefits against the risks, costs, and limitations. While many individuals report positive experiences with this treatment, the scientific evidence supporting its efficacy remains limited compared to well-studied oral NAD supplements.
The allure of a rapid NAD boost via IV infusion is understandable, particularly for those facing acute health challenges or seeking accelerated recovery. However, the higher costs, potential side effects, and lack of long-term safety data should give pause to anyone considering this approach.
In contrast, oral NAD supplements offer a more accessible, affordable, and scientifically validated option for gradually increasing NAD levels over time. With a growing body of research supporting their safety and efficacy, these supplements may represent a more prudent choice for the majority of individuals seeking the benefits of NAD therapy.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue NAD IV therapy should be made in close consultation with a trusted healthcare provider who can assess your individual needs and risk factors. They can help you evaluate whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks in your specific case, and guide you toward the most appropriate options for supporting your health and well-being.
For those interested in a clinically proven, convenient, and cost-effective alternative to IV therapy, Jinfiniti’s Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster stands out as a compelling option. This patent-pending oral supplement combines four powerful ingredients – NMN, creatine monohydrate, D-ribose, and nicotinamide – to optimize NAD levels through multiple pathways.
Vitality’s unique formulation includes both a one-step NAD precursor and supports the salvage pathway that recycles nicotinamide, while creatine monohydrate serves as an ATP energy reservoir and potential neurotransmitter. All ingredients are third-party tested for the highest purity, ensuring a safe and effective way to revitalize cellular function without the risks and costs associated with IV therapy.
Referenced Sources:
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2021.704779/full ↩︎
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2023.1278641/full ↩︎
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6751327/ ↩︎
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8038981/ ↩︎
- https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.06.06.24308565v1.full ↩︎
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7278809/ ↩︎
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1550413115002661 ↩︎
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6787556/ ↩︎
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8747183/ ↩︎
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31278280/ ↩︎
