NAD+ is having a moment. You’ve probably seen it on wellness menus, podcasts about longevity, and in the news as a treatment for everything from addiction recovery to anti-aging. So what’s the actual science, and is an NAD+ IV worth the price?
What is NAD+?
NAD+ stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide — a coenzyme present in every cell of your body. It’s central to converting food into energy at the mitochondrial level. Without NAD+, your cells literally can’t make ATP (the body’s energy currency). NAD+ also activates a class of enzymes called sirtuins, which regulate DNA repair, metabolism, inflammation, and aspects of cellular aging.
Here’s the catch: NAD+ levels decline meaningfully with age. By age 50, levels are roughly half of what they were at 20.
What an NAD+ IV does
Direct IV infusion of NAD+ raises blood and tissue levels of the coenzyme much more reliably than oral precursors (like NMN or NR), which require multiple metabolic steps to be converted. NAD+ IV therapy is most studied for:
- Cellular energy and metabolic support — replenishing the substrate cells need to produce energy.
- Cognitive function — brain cells are NAD+-dependent; some patients report improved focus and clarity.
- Recovery from physical or mental fatigue — particularly during high-stress periods.
- Adjunct support in addiction recovery — NAD+ has been used in protocols supporting alcohol and opioid recovery, with promising preliminary evidence.
- Aging and longevity research — early human studies suggest benefits for age-related conditions, though long-term data is still emerging.
What it feels like
Honest disclosure: NAD+ IVs aren’t always comfortable. The infusion is typically slow (2–4 hours) because too-fast administration can cause flushing, chest tightness, anxiety, or nausea. At a comfortable rate, most patients tolerate it well. After a session, many people describe a noticeable lift in clarity and energy that lasts days to weeks. Some notice no immediate effect. Response varies significantly by individual.
Is it worth it?
NAD+ is one of the more expensive IV therapies — typically $400–$600 per session at most clinics — because the compound itself is costly and infusions are long.
For:
- People in their 40s+ noticing energy or cognitive decline
- Athletes or executives in high-demand periods
- Those exploring proactive longevity protocols
- Adjunct support during recovery (with appropriate medical oversight)
…it can be a meaningful tool. For routine wellness in a healthy 25-year-old, simpler drips probably offer better value.
NAD+ at Arbor
We offer NAD+ as part of our greNADe drip ($450) — a Myers’ cocktail combined with NAD+. It’s our flagship cellular performance and longevity infusion. If you’re considering it, book a consultation and we’ll talk through whether it’s a fit for your goals.