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NAD therapy is designed to restore energy, mental clarity, and overall vitality by boosting your body’s NAD+ levels. But what actually happens before and after NAD therapy? And is it as effective as it's made out to be?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what NAD is, the different types of NAD therapy, and what changes people commonly notice before and after treatment.
You’ll also learn what the science says—and what most wellness clinics don’t tell you.
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What Is NAD?
NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a molecule found in every single cell of your body. It plays a critical role in turning the food you eat into the energy your body uses. Think of it like your body’s internal battery—without enough NAD+, your cells struggle to keep up.
As we age, our natural NAD+ levels drop. This decline is linked to common issues like fatigue, brain fog, slower recovery after exercise, and even poor sleep. Studies have found that NAD+ levels can fall by as much as 50% between early adulthood and your 50s or 60s [1].
NAD+ also supports important functions like DNA repair, immune response, and metabolism. Scientists now believe that low NAD+ may contribute to several age-related diseases, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and type 2 diabetes [2].
That’s why NAD has become such a hot topic in anti-aging and longevity research.
Whether through diet, lifestyle changes, or therapies like NAD IV drips, people are looking for ways to replenish this vital molecule. But not all NAD therapies work the same, as we’ll explore next.
Different Types of NAD Therapy
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NAD therapy involves delivering NAD+ directly into your body to help restore low levels. These treatments are often marketed as anti-aging, energy-boosting, and brain-enhancing solutions, but how effective are they really?
Let’s take a closer look at the most common types of NAD therapy.
NAD+ IV Therapy
This is one of the most popular methods and is often done in wellness clinics. It involves slowly infusing NAD+ directly into your bloodstream through an IV line. Sessions usually last 2 to 4 hours.
Supporters claim that NAD+ IV therapy helps you feel more energized and mentally clear within hours. However, some research raises concerns about its effectiveness.
Because NAD+ is a large molecule, it may not be absorbed efficiently, even when injected directly into the blood. A study notes that NAD+ may have limited bioavailability when administered this way [3].
In short, while IV therapy might provide temporary benefits, its long-term effectiveness is still unclear, and it can be expensive.
NAD+ Infusions
Infusions are very similar to IV therapy and are often used interchangeably. The idea is that delivering NAD+ slowly over several hours improves absorption and extends benefits. Clinics often combine infusions with vitamins or other nutrients to support energy and hydration.
Again, while some people report positive effects like reduced fatigue, these are usually short-lived and require repeated sessions, which can cost hundreds of dollars each time.
NAD+ Self-Injections
Some clinics offer kits for NAD+ self-injection, where you inject NAD+ under the skin at home. This is faster than an IV and offers more flexibility.
That said, it still involves needles, requires guidance from a provider, and may lead to discomfort or side effects.
There's also little scientific research confirming how well NAD+ injections work long-term.
NAD+ Nasal Sprays
NAD nasal sprays are a newer and non-invasive option. You simply spray it into your nostrils, where it’s supposed to be absorbed through the mucous membranes.
This method is convenient, but again, research on its effectiveness is limited. It's not yet clear how much NAD+ actually gets into your bloodstream or whether it offers meaningful benefits.
NAD Therapy: Before and After
If you're considering NAD therapy, it helps to understand what the experience is like—before, during, and after treatment. Here’s a breakdown of what people typically report at each stage.
Before NAD Therapy
Before starting NAD therapy, many people feel like their energy and focus just aren’t what they used to be. Here’s what life often looks like when your NAD+ levels are low:
Chronic fatigue: You may feel tired no matter how much you sleep.
Brain fog: Trouble concentrating or staying sharp throughout the day.
Slower recovery: Workouts leave you sore longer, or you catch colds more easily.
Mood dips: Feeling low, unmotivated, or emotionally “flat.”
These symptoms are common as NAD+ declines with age, and they’re usually what lead people to explore NAD therapy in the first place.
Preparing for Your First Session
Before your appointment, most clinics will recommend a few things to help you get the best results:
Hydrate well: Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of your session. It can help reduce side effects and improve how your body handles the infusion.
Eat a light meal: Avoid going in hungry, but skip heavy or greasy foods. A simple, balanced meal helps avoid nausea.
Limit caffeine: It’s best to avoid coffee or energy drinks before therapy.
Dress comfortably: Sessions can take 2–3 hours. Wear loose clothing with sleeves that roll up easily.
Bring something to pass the time: A book, podcast, or playlist can help you relax.
You’ll also likely have a brief consultation to determine dosage, frequency, and whether you’re a good candidate based on your health history.
During NAD Therapy
NAD therapy sessions can vary depending on the method you choose—IV, infusion, injection, or nasal spray. Here’s a general idea of what happens during a session:
For IV or Infusion Sessions:
Check-in and setup: You’ll be seated in a comfortable chair. A nurse or provider will insert an IV line into your arm.
Fluids first: You might receive fluids or vitamins first, especially in wellness clinics.
NAD+ infusion begins: The NAD solution is slowly delivered over 1 to 4 hours. Some people start to feel relaxed or clear-headed during the session.
Side effects: You might feel a warm flush, slight nausea, or light-headedness. These usually go away quickly or are managed by slowing the drip rate.
For Injections:
Quick session: Injections are usually done in under 10 minutes and go into the muscle (typically the upper arm or thigh).
Mild discomfort: Some soreness at the injection site is normal.
Gradual absorption: The NAD is absorbed over time, and effects may kick in later that day or the next.
For Nasal Sprays:
Spray and go: You’ll spray the NAD+ into your nose, and it’s absorbed through the nasal lining.
Less research-backed: This method is newer, and effectiveness varies.
No matter the delivery method, it’s common to feel relaxed, sleepy, or mildly fatigued right after. That’s totally normal—your body is adjusting.
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After NAD Therapy
After the session, some people notice changes quickly. Others may need multiple sessions to feel a difference. Here’s what people often report:
In the First 24–48 Hours:
Clearer thinking: Many describe a lift in brain fog—sharper focus and quicker mental processing.
Energy boost: Some feel more motivated and alert, with fewer afternoon crashes.
Better mood: A sense of calm or reduced stress is common.
Over the First Week:
Improved sleep: Falling asleep and staying asleep may become easier.
Faster recovery: Less soreness or fatigue after physical activity.
More balanced energy: Less reliance on caffeine or sugar to stay alert.
Possible Side Effects:
While NAD+ is generally well tolerated, some people experience:
Headaches or mild nausea
Redness or soreness at the injection/IV site
Fatigue or drowsiness for a few hours post-treatment
Flushing or tingling sensation (temporary)
To reduce side effects and support recovery:
Stay hydrated
Eat nourishing foods
Get a good night’s sleep
Avoid strenuous workouts for 24 hours after therapy
Does NAD+ Therapy Really Work Long-Term?
NAD+ therapy is marketed as a breakthrough for energy, focus, and longevity—but does it really live up to the hype? The truth is more complicated.
While some people report feeling better shortly after NAD IV or injections, studies suggest that NAD+ itself is not easily absorbed by the body, even when delivered directly into the bloodstream.
A 2021 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology pointed out that NAD+ has poor cell permeability, meaning it doesn’t always reach where it's needed inside your cells [4].
Another issue is cost. NAD+ IV treatments can run anywhere from $300 to over $1,000 per session, and multiple sessions are often recommended.
But for many, the benefits are temporary, and stop once the infusions stop.
So while NAD therapy sounds promising, the science shows it may not be the most efficient or sustainable way to restore your NAD levels. Fortunately, there’s another option that addresses these challenges directly.
A Better Alternative: NAD Precursors Like NMN and NR
Instead of delivering NAD+ directly, scientists have found that it’s often more effective to support the body’s natural ability to make NAD+ from smaller, more absorbable building blocks—called precursors.
Two of the most well-studied precursors are NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside).
These compounds are much smaller than NAD+ itself, which allows them to be absorbed more easily and converted into NAD+ inside your cells where it's needed most.
Research supports their effectiveness. A study in Nature Communications found that NMN supplementation improved insulin sensitivity in postmenopausal women [5].
Another study showed that runners who took NMN for six weeks had better aerobic performance and muscle endurance [6].
Between the two, NMN appears to be the more effective and stable option, particularly for age-related fatigue, cognitive support, and metabolic health.
It also has a growing body of human clinical research, making it one of the most promising NAD+ boosters on the market today.
If you're looking for a more consistent and science-backed way to support NAD+ production, a high-quality NMN supplement may be a better fit.
If you’re looking for a trusted option, you can check out OMRE NMN + Resveratrol. It combines ultra-pure NMN with Resveratrol, designed to help support energy, cellular repair, and healthy aging.
Conclusion
NAD+ therapy can offer short-term improvements in energy, focus, and recovery, especially if you’re feeling the effects of aging or low cellular function.
But for many people, the high cost and questionable long-term impact make it less appealing than it first appears.
That’s why NAD precursors like NMN are gaining popularity. They’re better absorbed, more affordable, and backed by real research showing they can help your body naturally boost NAD+ levels.
If you're ready to try a simpler and more sustainable approach, OMRE NMN + Resveratrol might be worth a look.
You can check availability to see if it’s currently in stock.
FAQs
How long do NAD IV effects last?
For most people, the effects of NAD IV therapy, such as increased energy or mental clarity, last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. However, these results are often temporary and may wear off without continued treatment.
Is NAD IV therapy safe?
Yes, NAD IV therapy is generally safe when administered by a trained professional. Some people may experience mild side effects like nausea, flushing, or fatigue, especially during or shortly after the session. It’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before starting.
How quickly do you see results?
Some individuals feel benefits within a few hours of their first session, including improved focus or alertness. Others may need several sessions before noticing any changes. Results can vary depending on your overall health, age, and lifestyle habits.
How many sessions are needed?
There isn’t a standard number that works for everyone. Some providers recommend four to six sessions at the beginning, followed by monthly maintenance. The right schedule depends on your goals, response to treatment, and budget.
Can I take NMN and get similar benefits?
Yes, many people choose NMN supplements as an alternative to NAD IV therapy. NMN is a precursor to NAD+ and has been shown in studies to support energy, metabolism, and cognitive function. It’s often more convenient, affordable, and better absorbed by the body.