Here’s what we’ll cover in this blog post:
- How the body absorbs NAD+
- How different NAD+ options compare
- How to choose the right NAD+ option
As NAD+ gains popularity for its role in energy production, anti-aging, and cellular health, many are left wondering which delivery method is most effective.
NAD+ is available in various forms, including injections, IV drips, patches, and even oral precursors that are converted into bioavailable NAD+ after consumption. However, each method comes with its own benefits, limitations, and effectiveness.
This guide will dive into the science, absorption rates, and best practices for each NAD+ delivery option, helping you make an informed choice to reach your health goals.
Why NAD+ Can’t Be Absorbed Orally
It’s no hyperbole to say that we need NAD+ to survive and thrive, but the body’s ability to produce its own supply of NAD+ slowly diminishes with age. NAD+ is essential for cellular energy, metabolism, and DNA repair, yet it has a complex structure that makes oral supplementation ineffective.
When consumed in its complete form, NAD+ breaks down during digestion, leaving little or none for the body to absorb. This limitation has led to the development of alternative methods that bypass the digestive system to deliver NAD+ directly to the cells.
Oral NAD+ Precursors
In place of pure NAD+, some people turn to NAD+ precursors, which the body can convert into NAD+. However, NAD+ precursors pose their own set of challenges. There is wide variability in how well individuals absorb and convert these precursors, and individual metabolism, gut health, and other factors can further alter absorption rates. Though these options can deliver NAD+ orally, NAD+ precursors don’t provide as much bioavailable NAD+ as other methods.
Additionally, precursor supplements have faced shelf life and stability issues. Improper storage can degrade the product, further impacting their effectiveness. As a result, precursors often don’t provide the same predictable results as direct NAD+ delivery, though they may be effective for some people, especially if taken with other NAD+ options.
The Science Behind NAD+ Absorption Rates
Due to the limitations of oral NAD+ delivery, transdermal IontoPatches, subcutaneous injections, and IV infusions have emerged as popular alternatives. Each method has its own rate of absorption and unique benefits, helping users to select the approach that best fits their lifestyle and health goals.
Subcutaneous NAD+ Injections (100mg)
Subcutaneous NAD+ injections are a popular choice for those seeking a steady, manageable way to supplement NAD+ levels.
With injections, patients can self-administer a 100mg dose directly under the skin, where the body gradually absorbs NAD+ into the bloodstream. This method allows for a smaller, consistent dose, which can help maintain stable NAD+ levels without the extreme surges seen with IV infusions.
Many users find that spacing out these smaller doses over time is more conducive to long-term NAD+ support, leading to sustained benefits in energy, mood, and cellular health. The convenience of at-home administration also makes injections a flexible and accessible option for many.
NAD+ Iontophoresis Patches (400mg)
NAD+ patches, typically dosed at around 400mg, deliver NAD+ transdermally using iontophoresis. This process uses a gentle electric current to help NAD+ pass through the skin and into the bloodstream.
Similar to injections, patches provide a steady release, which is ideal for maintaining a more consistent NAD+ level in the body. However, some users may experience skin irritation with patches, particularly if they have sensitive skin. For individuals prone to such issues, subcutaneous injections may be a preferable option to avoid discomfort while still achieving a similar level of NAD+ support.
NAD+ IV Drip Therapy
IV drip therapy delivers high doses of NAD+—typically between 500mg and 1000mg—directly into the bloodstream. This method achieves immediate absorption, resulting in a rapid surge of NAD+ levels that some users feel as an instant boost in energy and mental clarity.
However, there are some trade-offs to consider. First, NAD+ levels often drop soon after the infusions, which can make the effects of IV therapy short-lived. So while IV therapy is effective for a temporary boost, it may not support long-term NAD+ maintenance as effectively as smaller, more consistent doses.
IV drips also come with higher costs, often ranging from $500 to $1000 or more per session, and each infusion can take between 2 and 6 hours. For many, these factors make IV therapy an occasional rather than a routine option.
Choosing the Best NAD+ Option for Long-Term Results
With several options available, choosing the right NAD+ delivery method often comes down to individual preferences, goals, and lifestyle. Here’s a quick comparison to help you make the best choice for your NAD+ supplementation:
- For long-term maintenance: Subcutaneous injections or NAD+ patches may be optimal. These methods allow for smaller, spaced-out doses that help maintain more stable NAD+ levels over time, leading to gradual but sustained effects.
- For sensitive skin or injection concerns: If skin sensitivity is an issue, subcutaneous injections may be more suitable than patches, offering a similar gradual release of NAD+ without potential skin irritation.
- For immediate results: IV infusions are a good option for those seeking an immediate boost in NAD+ levels. However, because the effects are temporary and the process is time-consuming and costly, IV drips may be best for occasional use rather than as a regular NAD+ maintenance strategy.
- For cost-effective supplementation: While all methods provide benefits, subcutaneous injections and patches tend to be more cost-effective than IV therapy, especially over the long term.
Each method—whether it’s an injection, patch, or IV drip—brings unique benefits that cater to different needs and preferences. For those who prioritize consistency, injections and patches may be more conducive to maintaining stable NAD+ levels. On the other hand, those seeking a short-term boost might prefer the immediacy of an IV infusion.
Ultimately, understanding these differences can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your health goals, budget, and lifestyle. Consulting with a healthcare provider can also provide personalized guidance on the best NAD+ regimen, ensuring that you get the maximum benefit from your NAD+ journey.
Note: The above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.