The NAD+ Delivery Options
Raising NAD+ levels can be approached through: (1) oral precursors (NMN or NR), (2) subcutaneous injection of NAD+ or its precursors, or (3) intravenous (IV) NAD+ infusion. Each has different bioavailability, cost, convenience, and clinical evidence profiles.
Oral NMN and NR: Accessible and Studied
NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside) are NAD+ precursors that can be taken orally. Both have human clinical trials showing they raise blood NAD+ levels. They are available without prescription. The limitation is that oral bioavailability is lower than injectable routes and the clinical evidence for meaningful longevity outcomes in humans remains limited.
IV NAD+: Highest Bioavailability, Highest Hassle
IV NAD+ delivers the compound directly into the bloodstream with complete bioavailability. Clinics offer 2-4 hour infusion sessions that acutely raise NAD+ levels significantly. The limitation is that it requires clinic visits, typically costs $300-$1,000 per session, and the duration of elevated NAD+ is transient.
Subcutaneous NAD+: The Middle Ground
Subcutaneous injection of NAD+ precursors offers higher bioavailability than oral while allowing home administration. This is the most practical approach for ongoing NAD+ support in a telehealth-based protocol. My Body Labs includes subcutaneous NAD+ options in its Longevity protocol for appropriate patients.