What is NAD+?
NAD+ acts as an important cofactor and substrate for a multitude of biological processes including energy production, DNA repair, gene expression, calcium dependent secondary messenger signaling and immunoregulatory roles. NAD+ levels have been reported to decline during aging and age-related diseases.
Recent studies have shown that raising intracellular NAD+ levels represents a promising therapeutic strategy for age-associated degenerative diseases in general and to extend lifespan in small animal models.
Intravenous and intramuscular administrations of NAD+ can bypass the gut lining to get into every cell in your body as well as pass the blood brain barrier, resulting in beneficial effects on the brain.
NAD IV therapy is a medical treatment that involves the intravenous administration of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) into the bloodstream. NAD is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in many cellular processes, including energy production, DNA repair, gene expression, immunoregulatory roles and antioxidant defense. As with any IV therapy, it can be more beneficial than supplementing as it bypasses the digestive system, ensuring the body receives high doses of the nutrient straight into the cells.
Benefits of NAD IV therapy
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Increased energy levels: As a key component of the body's energy production system, and NAD can help improve cellular metabolism and boost energy levels.
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Improved brain function & concussion recovery: NAD is also involved in brain function and has been shown to enhance cognitive function, memory, and mood. Studies have shown that oxidative stress after a concussion depletes levels of NAD in the mitochondria of neurons leading to cell death. This damage can occur in the acute, subacute and chronic stages of a head injury. NAD has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, prevent damage to brain cells and reduce the risk of neuronal cell death by correcting mitochondrial metabolism.
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Reduced inflammation: NAD has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with many chronic diseases.
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Enhanced detoxification: NAD is involved in the body's natural detoxification processes and can help remove harmful toxins from the body.
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Improved athletic performance: NAD IV therapy can enhance athletic performance by increasing energy levels, improving endurance, and reducing muscle fatigue.
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Reduced aging: NAD+ levels have been reported to decline during ageing and age-related diseases. Recent studies have shown that raising intracellular NAD+ levels represents a promising therapeutic strategy for age-associated degenerative diseases in general and to extend lifespan in small animal models.
Who Can Benefit from NAD IV Therapy
NAD IV therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of individuals, including those who:
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Are experiencing chronic fatigue or low energy levels
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Are suffering from chronic pain or inflammation
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Are recovering from substance abuse or addiction
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Are looking to improve athletic performance
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Are interested in anti-aging and longevity
Utility of NAD+ in post-concussive Therapy
​Studies have shown that oxidative stress after a concussion depletes levels of NAD in the mitochondria of neurons leading to cell death. This damage can occur in the acute, subacute and chronic stages of a head injury. NAD has been shown to reduce oxidative stress, prevent damage to brain cells and reduce the risk of neuronal cell death by correcting mitochondrial metabolism. When the brain is depleted of NAD, the cells rely on alternative, more oxidative forms of energy production. By increasing the brain’s levels of NAD, the mitochondrial energy pathways are forced back into functional metabolism. These are all key factors which need correcting for post concussion treatment. The goal behind NAD therapy is to restore mitochondrial metabolism and decrease oxidative stress in the brain. By using higher doses of NAD, we can alter the brains energy metabolism to restore proper function after a traumatic brain injury. 1
Utility of NAD+ in Addiction Recovery
NAD+ IV therapy aids in addiction recovery through several mechanisms. Firstly, it replenishes cellular energy levels, which are often depleted by substance abuse, leading to fatigue and cravings. By restoring NAD+ levels, the therapy enhances ATP production, providing individuals with increased energy and overall well-being.
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Secondly, NAD+ IV therapy supports detoxification and neuroprotection. Addiction can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and damage to brain cells. NAD+ acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing inflammation. It also aids in DNA repair, facilitating the restoration of damaged neurons. By reducing oxidative stress and promoting cellular repair, NAD+ IV therapy helps protect the brain from addiction-related damage and supports healing.
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Lastly, NAD+ IV therapy alleviates withdrawal symptoms and reduces cravings. It enhances the function of neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation and reward pathways, such as dopamine and serotonin. By restoring proper neurotransmitter balance, NAD+ IV therapy stabilizes mood, reduces anxiety and depression, and diminishes cravings for drugs or alcohol.
Overall, NAD+ IV therapy provides multiple benefits for addiction recovery by boosting cellular energy, supporting detoxification and neuroprotection, and reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It is an adjunctive treatment that is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive recovery program.
Extra Nerdy Things
The de novo synthesis of NAD+ is primarily dependent on the kynurenine pathway (KP), although NAD+ can also be recycled from nicotinic acid (NA), nicotinamide (NAM) and nicotinamide riboside (NR).
FAQS
Is NAD IV therapy safe?
NAD IV therapy is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some potential side effects, such as nausea, headache, and flushing. It is important to discuss any concerns you may have with your healthcare provider before starting NAD IV therapy and inform them of any medications you may be using. Talk to your doctor about receiving NAD therapy if you have been diagnosed with a pheochromocytoma or cancers in the past.