What is NAD+?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, often called “NAD plus”) is a coenzyme found in every living cell. It helps turn food into energy and is used by enzymes that repair DNA and control how cells age.
The body makes NAD+ from forms of vitamin B3. Studies in animals and people show NAD+ levels tend to fall with age, which is why it is marketed as an anti-aging and energy product.
Is NAD+ a peptide?
No, NAD+ is not a peptide. It is a small molecule made from vitamin B3 and a nucleotide, not a chain of amino acids.
It shows up on peptide sites because it is often sold by the same clinics and vendors, as drips, injections and nasal sprays.
How do people take NAD+?
There are two main routes. Supplements of NAD+ building blocks, mainly NMN and NR, are taken by mouth, and the body turns them into NAD+.
NAD+ itself is given by IV drip or injection at wellness clinics.
What does the research on NAD+ show?
Oral NMN and NR reliably raise NAD+ levels in the blood, and short trials found them generally well tolerated. But when researchers measured real outcomes, like muscle strength, blood sugar, blood pressure or fitness, results were mixed and often showed no clear benefit.
NAD+ drips and injections have even less evidence: there are no large trials showing they improve energy, aging, addiction recovery or anything else.
NAD+ side effects and risks
Reported side effects of NMN and NR include nausea, flushing, diarrhea and leg cramps. NAD+ drips commonly cause chest tightness, nausea and cramping when run quickly, and any injection carries a risk of infection.
Long-term effects of raising NAD+ for years are unknown.
Is NAD+ legal?
Yes, NMN and NR can be sold as dietary supplements in the US; the FDA confirmed in 2025 that NMN is lawful in supplements after previously saying it wasn’t.
Supplements aren’t checked by the FDA for effectiveness. NAD+ drips and injections are prepared by compounding pharmacies and are not FDA-approved for anti-aging, energy or any other wellness use.