Anti-Aging: Are NAD+ Drips the Secret? Doctors Explain

Humans have been trying to look younger since records began, and the newest fad on the market might actually work—or might not—according to doctors. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, otherwise known as NAD+, is a substance found in all cells in the human body and helps them function well. It is important for the regulation of metabolism, repair of DNA and production of energy. But NAD+ levels decline as we get older, and many believe this is linked to the aging process. NAD+ activates a group of enzymes called sirtuins, which help with cell repair, regulating inflammation and stress resistance. When these processes become less efficient—as in the aging process—there is a higher risk of certain chronic diseases, such as dementia, heart disease and diabetes. Now, the wellness scene has taken a shine to supplemental NAD+ as an anti-aging treatment, via pills or intravenous drips—as taken, for example, by Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner on an episode of The Kardashians. But experts are divided on whether this treatment is effective or advisable.

How Much Evidence Is There for NAD+ Treatments?

Dr. Brynna Connor, a physician who specializes in anti-aging and regenerative medicine and the health care ambassador for NorthwestPharmacy.com, told Newsweek that NAD+ treatments are "an exciting area of research" still in its early stages. "Given its involvement in critical biological processes, there is the possibility that enhancing NAD+ levels could have significant implications for extending one's lifespan and improving longevity," she said. "However, as with many emerging anti-aging treatments, the truth is that it is unlikely that boosting NAD+ levels alone will be sufficient." Instead, she said, a range of healthy habits will continue to remain important, such as a nutritious diet, exercise, sleep and stress management. "More research is needed to fully understand the long-term benefits and potential risks of NAD+ therapies," Connor said. "And they should be viewed as part of a broader, evidence-based approach to health." However, Dr. Anil Shah, a facial plastic surgeon and anti-aging expert, told Newsweek that, while studies were preliminary, they suggested that NAD would likely help with anti-aging. "I consider NAD part of my daily essential supplements to look and feel my best," he said. "I'm a facial plastic surgeon, and when I saw my primary care doctor, he said I look way younger than my chronological age. It's more than just NAD, but I think it does help." Shah said he took NAD+ mainly to maintain his brain, hair and skin health. "Aesthetics and function go hand in hand. My best-aged patients often incorporate well-planned supplements like NAD."

Which Forms of NAD+ Are Best?

There are a variety of methods for taking NAD+ supplements, including swallowing a pill, applying a cream or injecting a drip. "There really aren't any studies to prove that one version is better than the other," Shah said. NAD+ pill supplements include added ingredients—such as vitamin B3—because the body cannot digest pure NAD+ on its own. Shah said that different supplements contain different added ingredients, called precursors, but there is "some controversy over which is more effective." So he took both. But Connor said that "while these supplements have recently gained popularity, it is important to note that research on their effectiveness in humans is still in its early stages. At the moment, there is insufficient evidence to support their long-term effectiveness." He said that topical NAD+ treatments—meaning NAD+ creams and ointments applied to the skin—have a similar story: They might have benefits but need more research. As for intravenous (IV) drips, Connor said fans claim that they can help the body absorb NAD+ by bypassing the digestive system and offer immediate effects, and that some clinics advertise this therapy for chronic fatigue, addiction and brain conditions. "It is important to approach these treatments with caution," she said. "There is limited evidence supporting their long-term benefits, and IV therapy may carry risks such as side effects and high costs." Is there a health problem that's worrying you? Do you have a question about aging? Let us know via health@newsweek.com. We can ask experts for advice and your story could be featured in Newsweek.