What Is NAD+?
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a substance found in all living cells that plays
a critical role in energy production, DNA repair, and cell function. NAD+ levels naturally
decline with age and can also be depleted by illness, stress, and chronic inflammation.
Supplementing NAD+ through intravenous (IV) infusions, or precursors (compounds that
are used to make NAD+) like nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide
(NMN) may help restore cellular energy and support recovery from long COVID.
How NAD+ Supplementation May Help for Long COVID
- NAD+ Drain in Viral Infections: Viral infections, including COVID-19, can rapidly
deplete NAD+ levels due to increased immune activity, oxidative stress, and
excessive activation of NAD+-consuming enzymes. This depletion may contribute to
fatigue and inflammation observed in long COVID. Restoring NAD+ levels through
supplementation could help counteract these effects and support recovery. - Boosting Cellular Energy: Long COVID is often associated with fatigue and
reduced mitochondrial function. NAD+ is essential for ATP production, the primary
energy source for cells. Increasing NAD+ levels may improve energy metabolism
and reduce fatigue. - Supporting Brain Function: Many long COVID patients experience brain fog and
cognitive dysfunction. NAD+ is involved in neuron repair and neurotransmitter
function, which may help improve mental clarity and focus. - Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a key factor in long COVID
symptoms. NAD+ has been shown to modulate inflammatory pathways and support
the body’s ability to recover from ongoing immune activation.
What the Research Says
Although research on NAD+ supplementation for long COVID is limited, one study has
directly demonstrated its benefits. Nevertheless, several articles provide theoretical
reason for NAD+ supplementation for long COVID and discusses parallels with similar
conditions.
Key Studies on NAD+ and long COVID
Study Showing Positive Effects:
- This study is the first direct clinical trial investigating NAD+ supplementation for long COVID. It found that NAD+ therapy improved fatigue, cognitive function, and overall well-being in participants, supporting its potential as a treatment for post-viral symptoms.
Articles Discussing Theoretical Benefits:
- This article explores how NAD+ depletion affects immune responses and inflammation, suggesting that restoring NAD+ levels may help regulate immune function in long COVID patients.
- This article highlights the role of NAD+ in cellular repair and energy metabolism, proposing that supplementation could aid recovery from viral-induced mitochondrial dysfunction.
- This article discusses how aging-related NAD+ decline overlaps with long COVID pathology, reinforcing the idea that replenishing NAD+ may counteract fatigue and neuroinflammation.
- This article examines the connection between NAD+ levels and chronic inflammation, emphasizing how boosting NAD+ could help mitigate long COVID-related inflammatory damage.
- This article provides insights into NAD+ metabolism in post-viral syndromes, suggesting that its depletion contributes to prolonged symptoms and that supplementation might restore cellular balance.
Final Thoughts and Typical Use
NAD+ supplementation is a promising approach for long COVID recovery, with some
patients experiencing improved energy, reduced inflammation, and better cognitive
function. While more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness, NAD+ is safe, well tolerated and easily accessible. Always consult with a doctor before starting this treatment. Typical use includes 250-500 mg NMN or 250-300 mg NR orally daily. Always start with the lowest dose and adjust from there. Discontinue immediately if you feel unwell. If you’re looking for the biggest effect, IV infusions are the most reliable. Their use and dose will, of course, be guided by a doctor.
