NAD+ is everywhere. Everyone from podcasters to celebrities and, even, your coworkers are touting the benefits of NAD+ transfusions. As the popularity of NAD+ continues to climb across digital spheres—and IRL—the messaging around NAD+ could get murky, especially when it comes to conversations on how NAD+ and detoxification. To give you some clarity, we’re breaking down how NAD+ can be a powerful tool for people struggling with addiction.
What is NAD+?
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, NAD+ plays a crucial role in our existence. As a coenzyme found in all cells, it has the power to regulate processes like energy conversion, DNA repair, and immune system response.1,2Â Over time our natural NAD+ levels diminish, ushering in age-related conditions and health concerns. While more and more people are seeking out NAD+ for its longevity-boosting benefits, demand for NAD+ as a detoxification tool is also growing.Â
Since the 1960s researchers have touted the potential benefits of utilizing NAD+ supplementation to support individuals fighting withdrawals and recovering from substance abuse.4 Here’s how it can help:
Restores depleted levels of NAD+
It’s not just age that can impact our NAD+ stores. Substance abuse, especially compounded over long periods of time, can deplete NAD+ levels by contributing to more oxidative stress and inflammation, which leads to cellular dysfunction and cellular death. Without adequate levels of NAD+ it’s increasingly difficult for body systems to operate at optimal levels.
Protects against neurotoxicity
Neurotoxicity refers to natural or man-made toxic substances that cause damage to the brain or nervous system. Substances like alcohol are proven neurotoxins and especially damaging to brain health and function.5 NAD+ has been shown to protect against neurotoxicity by activating enzymes involved in DNA repair and reducing oxidative stress in the brain.
Ameliorates painful withdrawal symptoms
Withdrawal periods result in physical and mental anguish, but NAD+ supplementation may abate this discomfort. Pioneering studies from 1961 showed the positive effects of NAD+ on withdrawal symptoms, and more recent studies are confirming reductions in craving, anxiety, and depression.4,6 During withdrawal from drugs or alcohol, the body is often under significant physiological stress, and the demand for ATP production increases. ATP is the primary energy source for cells and is critical for maintaining cellular function and survival. If ATP levels are depleted, it can contribute to the symptoms of withdrawal, including fatigue, weakness, and cognitive impairment.7
Ready to experience the power of NAD+ for yourself. Schedule your NAD+ infusion here.
References:
1.Cantó C, Menzies KJ, Auwerx J. NAD(+) Metabolism and the Control of Energy Homeostasis: A Balancing Act between Mitochondria and the Nucleus. Cell Metab. 2015 Jul 7;22(1):31-53. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2015.05.023. Epub 2015 Jun 25. PMID: 26118927; PMCID: PMC4487780.
2.Covarrubias AJ, Perrone R, Grozio A, Verdin E. NAD+ metabolism and its roles in cellular processes during ageing. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol. 2021 Feb;22(2):119-141. doi: 10.1038/s41580-020-00313-x. Epub 2020 Dec 22. PMID: 33353981; PMCID: PMC7963035.
3. Braidy N, Villalva MD, van Eeden S. Sobriety and Satiety: Is NAD+ the Answer? Antioxidants (Basel). 2020 May 14;9(5):425. doi: 10.3390/antiox9050425. PMID: 32423100; PMCID: PMC7278809.
4. O’HOLLAREN P. Diphosphopyridine nucleotide in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of drug addiction. A preliminary report. West J Surg Obstet Gynecol. 1961 May-Jun;69:213-5. PMID: 13730082.
5. 10th Special Report to the U.S. Congress on Alcohol and Health. National Institutes of Health, June 2000, https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/10report/chap02e.pdf.
6. Blum K, Han D, Baron D, Kazmi S, Elman I, Gomez LL, Gondre-Lewis MC, Thanos PK, Braverman ER, Badgaiyan RD. Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) and Enkephalinase Inhibition (IV1114589NAD) Infusions Significantly Attenuate Psychiatric Burden Sequalae in Substance Use Disorder (SUD) in Fifty Cases. Curr Psychiatry Res Rev. 2022 Jul;18(2):125-143. doi: 10.2174/2666082218666220527114427. Epub 2022 Jun 21. PMID: 36118157; PMCID: PMC9474872.
7. Cuenoud B, Ipek Ö, Shevlyakova M, Beaumont M, Cunnane SC, Gruetter R, Xin L. Brain NAD Is Associated With ATP Energy Production and Membrane Phospholipid Turnover in Humans. Front Aging Neurosci. 2020 Dec 16;12:609517. doi: 10.3389/fnagi.2020.609517. PMID: 33390929; PMCID: PMC7772416.