NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)
Coenzyme central to energy metabolism and DNA repair. Levels decline with age. The most-discussed longevity adjunct in the peptide community.
What it actually is
Not a peptide. NAD+ is a dinucleotide, two nucleotides joined together, that every cell uses to run its energy machinery and repair systems. It's a coenzyme for sirtuins (longevity-related enzymes), PARPs (DNA repair), and the entire mitochondrial electron-transport chain. Cellular NAD+ levels drop materially with age, and the working hypothesis driving the longevity research is that restoring those levels improves cellular function.
Why peptide users come across it
Pairs naturally with peptide protocols targeting recovery, energy, and aging. The Sinclair lab popularized it. IV NAD+ clinics opened in major cities. Often stacked with growth-axis peptides (Sermorelin, Tesamorelin, MOTS-c) and SS-31.
Mechanism
Documented dose range
Side effects
- Flushing and headache during IV infusion (rate-dependent, slow the drip)
- Nausea, chest pressure, abdominal cramping during fast IV pushes
- Injection-site reactions (sub-q)
- Transient fatigue post-session in some users
Contraindications
- Active cancer (theoretical, cancer cells use NAD+; consensus is unclear, avoid until your oncologist signs off)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Active kidney disease (renal clearance of byproducts)
The Pepdex take
IV protocols are expensive ($300–800/session). Sub-q at home is cheaper but the absorption curve isn't as clean. If running NAD+, run with a B-complex co-factor, methylation pathways need riboflavin and folate to handle the load.
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