Ever since Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner were filmed hooked up to IV drips on The Kardashians, the buzz around NAD+ therapy has reached fever pitch. The supermodels’ on-screen endorsement – with Bieber even declaring, “I’m going to NAD for the rest of my life, and I’m never going to age” – catapulted this previously niche treatment into the mainstream. And they’re not the only A-listers singing its praises. Jennifer Aniston has been quoted in The Wall Street Journal calling NAD+ IVs “the future,” while Gwyneth Paltrow has given IV therapy her coveted ‘Goop’ seal of approval, proclaiming her love for the treatment on her podcast. 

This chorus of high-profile endorsements has undoubtedly fuelled the perception that NAD+ is the must-have treatment for anyone chasing that elusive youthful glow. But what exactly is NAD+, and what should you know before you jump on the bandwagon?

Everything to know about NAD+ IV therapy

NAD+ – nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide – is a co-enzyme found in every cell of our bodies. It plays a crucial role in numerous biological processes, including energy production, DNA repair, and cellular communication. It is vital for proper cell functioning. 

The problem is that, as we age, our NAD+ levels naturally decrease. Some researchers even link this dip to the common symptoms of ageing and other health issues. This has inevitably led to a search for ways to boost NAD+ levels, from daily supplements to the more intensive IV therapy.

The promise of NAD+ IV therapy

“IV therapy is a highly efficient method of delivering essential nutrients, vitamins, and medications directly into the bloodstream,” explains Dr. Maria Alonso, Co-founder and Medical Director of Maison Santé in Dubai. “By bypassing the digestive system, it ensures rapid absorption and immediate therapeutic effects, providing superior absorption rates and the flexibility to customise treatments to suit individual patient needs.” 

This direct delivery, as Dr. Unnati Desai, founder of Apothecary IV, elaborates, allows for “an over 95 per cent absorption rate vs. 15 per cent bioavailability with tablet supplements,” making it significantly more effective. “IV infusions aid with recovery, boost mental and physical performance, give hair, skin, and nails strength and vitality, promote overall health and well-being, and promote relaxation of the mind and body,” Dr. Desai adds.

Advocates suggest the enhanced absorption confers numerous potential benefits – increased energy, better mental performance, metabolism and weight management, reduced inflammation, even anti-ageing effects like improved skin quality and protection against sun damage.

A measured approach – looking at the evidence

All said and done, it’s crucial to approach these claims with a critical eye. NAD+ is undoubtedly essential for cellular function, but scientific research supporting all of the claimed benefits of NAD+ IV therapy is still in its early stages. Many of the studies conducted so far have been relatively small, preliminary, or performed on animals, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions about how it affects humans in the long run. 

While some research indicates NAD+ supplementation or IV therapy might have potential benefits for certain conditions, such as age-related memory decline or metabolic problems, more extensive research is needed to back these up. As Dr Desai points out, “Research shows 90 per cent of people are nutrient deficient, with 50 per cent of these already taking nutrient supplements (i.e., tablet format).” This highlights the potential benefit of IVs for those struggling with nutrient absorption but doesn’t definitively prove the efficacy of NAD+ IV therapy specifically.

Risks and lack of oversight

There are also potential risks to consider. Since these treatments aren’t strictly regulated, the quality and purity of the NAD+ being administered can vary. 

Also, as with any IV procedure, there is a small risk of infection, blood clots, or allergic reactions. Dr. Alonso emphasises the importance of safety and regulatory standards, stating that in the UAE, “IV therapy is approved by the Ministry of Health, ensuring adherence to rigorous safety and regulatory standards.” She also stresses that “treatments must be administered under the supervision of qualified doctors, who carefully assess pre-existing conditions such as G6PD deficiency, which requires prior testing. Additionally, they evaluate any concurrent medications or supplements to prevent contraindications. The use of certified, high-quality IV solutions is crucial for achieving optimal results.” 

This underscores the necessity of seeking treatment from reputable clinics with qualified medical professionals to minimise potential risks. “This is not another wellness fad,” Dr. Desai adds. “Medicine is evolving to consider longevity and wellness, and people want solutions with scientific backing and demonstrable results.”

An altered approach to the ageing process

The growing interest in treatments like NAD+ IV therapy reflects a larger societal trend – our complicated relationship with ageing. We live in a world that often values youth, which can create pressure to look and feel young for as long as one can. 

It’s not unnatural to want to stay healthy and vibrant, but there’s a difference between scientifically backed methods and ones sold solely on hype.

Back to basics

For most of us, sticking to the basics of a healthy lifestyle – a balanced diet, regular exercise, enough sleep, and stress management – will be much more effective and long-lasting than some expensive, unproven treatment. These methods that have been around for years are proven to enhance one’s health, decrease the risks of diseases, and promote a longer and healthier life.

Proceed with caution

While the idea is intriguing, there is still much that is unknown about NAD+’s effectiveness and safety. Don’t go for a quick fix – instead, focus on developing sustainable healthy habits and discuss any unproven anti-ageing treatments with a qualified healthcare professional. 

The real key to well-being may not be found in a drip, but in the everyday decisions we make to care for our bodies and minds.