Ever feel like your energy tank is running on fumes? Like your brain has too many tabs open and they’re all buffering? You’re not alone—and there might be a cellular reason why. Enter NAD+, the molecule your body’s been quietly begging for.
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a crucial coenzyme found in every cell of your body, acting like a cellular power switch that keeps everything running smoothly. It plays a starring role in converting the food you eat into usable energy, repairing damaged DNA, and activating proteins called sirtuins that are linked to longevity and healthy aging. As we get older, our NAD+ levels naturally decline—sometimes dropping by half by the time we reach middle age—which contributes to fatigue, brain fog, slower metabolism, and other signs of aging. By replenishing NAD+ through therapies like IV infusions or injections, you’re essentially giving your cells the fuel they need to function optimally, potentially resulting in increased energy, sharper mental clarity, better physical performance, and enhanced overall vitality.
What’s the Deal with NAD+?
Think of NAD+ as your cells’ personal battery charger. This powerhouse molecule fuels everything from energy production to DNA repair, keeping your body humming along nicely. The catch? Our NAD+ levels can drop by 50% as we age, which explains why adulting feels progressively more exhausting.
The good news? We can replenish it through IV infusions and subcutaneous injections. Let’s break down both options.
NAD+ IV Therapy: The Fast Track
IV therapy delivers NAD+ straight to your bloodstream—no pit stops, no delays. It’s like express shipping for your cells.
What you might notice:
- Energy levels that make you feel like your old self again
- Mental clarity that cuts through the fog (hello, productivity!)
- Better recovery if you’re bouncing back from burnout or addiction
- That “I’ve got this” feeling that’s been missing
Sessions typically take 1-2 hours, and many people report feeling the effects within days. Think of it as a cellular tune-up.
Subcutaneous Injections: The Convenient Choice
If needles-in-the-arm aren’t your vibe, subcutaneous injections offer a gentler alternative. These quick shots go just under the skin—usually in your abdomen or upper arm—and release NAD+ gradually throughout the day.
Why people love SubQ injections:
- Quick and easy (we’re talking minutes, not hours)
- Can often be done at home once you’re trained
- More budget-friendly than IV sessions
- Sustained energy without the time commitment
- Minimal side effects—maybe just a little tenderness at the injection site
Many wellness enthusiasts use SubQ injections 2-3 times weekly to maintain their NAD+ levels and keep their energy steady.
So, Which One’s Right for You?
Go with IV therapy if: You want intensive results fast, you’re dealing with serious fatigue or recovery needs, or you like the idea of a comprehensive treatment session.
Go with SubQ injections if: You prefer convenience and consistency, you want something sustainable long-term, or you’re maintaining results after initial IV treatments.
Pro tip: Some people start with a series of IV infusions to “load up,” then switch to subcutaneous injections for maintenance. It’s like jump-starting a car, then keeping it running smoothly.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re chasing better energy, sharper focus, athletic performance, or just want to feel more like yourself, NAD+ therapy offers a science-backed way to support your cells from the inside out. Both IV and subcutaneous options are safe, effective, and increasingly popular among people who refuse to accept “tired and foggy” as their default setting.
Ready to give your cells the boost they’ve been craving? Talk to a qualified healthcare provider about which NAD+ therapy approach fits your lifestyle and goals.
Your mitochondria will thank you.
Reference
Grant, R., Berg, J., Mestayer, R., Braidy, N., Bennett, J., Broom, S., & Watson, J. (2019). A Pilot Study Investigating Changes in the Human Plasma and Urine NAD+ Metabolome During a 6 Hour Intravenous Infusion of NAD+. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 11, 257. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2019.00257