NAD IV Therapy
NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) IV infusion is a therapeutic approach that has gained attention in recent years, particularly within the integrative and anti-aging medical communities for skin, metabolic and age-related conditions. Here is an overview of NAD IV infusion, its proposed benefits, clinical evidence, and potential side effects.
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) is a coenzyme that plays a pivotal role in many biochemical processes within the body, including energy production, DNA repair, and regulation of oxidative stress. The body naturally produces NAD, but its levels decline with age.. Studies report that NAD is important in cellular aging.
Proposed Benefits of NAD IV Infusion
Accumulating evidence suggests that active maintenance of optimal levels of NAD is beneficial including for neurodegenerative disorders and the aging process.
- Cellular energy production: NAD is essential for converting food into energy within the mitochondria of cells. Boosting NAD levels might enhance cellular energy production.
- Skin conditions: NAD prevents actinic keratosis and improves some measures of photoaging.
- Metabolic conditions: Some evidence suggests NAD treatments can treat metabolic conditions such as obesity and metabolic syndrome.
- Brain health: Some proponents believe that NAD IV can help protect neurons, potentially aiding in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and promoting cognitive function.
- Anti-aging: Some researchers suggest that NAD can activate sirtuins, which are proteins linked to longevity and the regulation of aging processes.
- Detoxification and addiction: There’s preliminary evidence suggesting NAD might help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings in individuals with substance abuse disorders.
Clinical Evidence
While the benefits of NAD are compelling, the clinical evidence supporting the use of NAD IV infusions for specific conditions is still emerging. Studies report that depleted NAD is a common hallmark of metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver and aging.
A 2021 study reports that IV administration of NAD improves cognitive performance in humans.
There are small-scale studies and anecdotal reports suggesting benefits in various areas, including mood disorders, substance withdrawal, and chronic fatigue.
Randomized controlled trials and larger-scale studies are required to firmly establish the benefits and safety of NAD IV infusions.
Is NAD infusion safe?
Replenishing NAD is beneficial and safe. NAD is a dietary supplement not a medicine. NAD is an active form of Vitamin B3 (niacin). Replenishing NAD is beneficial and NAD IV infusion is safe.
Potential Side Effects
Based on human clinical trials conducted in the past few years, NAD treatment is promising and is likely to be safe with no known serious side effects.
While NAD IV infusions are generally well-tolerated, some potential side effects might occur:
- Immediate side effects: These can include flushing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, palpitations, nausea, cramping and headache. Most of these symptoms can be managed by slowing the infusion rate.
- Long-term effects: The long-term effects of regular NAD IV infusions are not well-documented, given the lack of long-term studies.
Administration
NAD IV infusions typically take between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the dosage and the patient’s tolerance. The frequency and number of treatments vary based on the clinical indication and patient’s needs. Usually several infusions of NAD are offered. It may also include other vitamins and amino acids.
Schedule a consultation
While NAD IV infusion has potential therapeutic benefits, it’s essential to approach its use with caution due to the limited large-scale clinical evidence supporting its efficacy and safety. At Mercie Health and Wellness Health we stay updated with ongoing research and weigh the potential benefits against the risks when considering NAD IV infusion for our patients. As always, patient safety and evidence-based practice should remain paramount.
Mercie Health and Wellness has the expertise and equipment to administer NAD IV Infusion to revitalize your body with IV NAD therapy. Located in Katy Texas, Mercie Health regularly sees patients from Richmond, Cinco Ranch, and Sugar Land, Texas.
At a Glance
Dr. Sylvia Udokoro Nwakanma
- Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
- Double Board Certified in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C)
- SAMSHA Certified Addictions Nurse Practitioner
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