NAD Nasal Spray vs. Injection

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme molecule that's key to maintaining cellular energy and DNA repair, and is at the forefront of longevity research. While the body naturally produces NAD+, it can also be supplemented to support various health goals.

At one point, NAD was only available as intravenous therapy or intramuscular injections. The problem with this is that it was expensive, often time-consuming (with appointments required), and came with higher risks for infection at the injection site and pain.

Delivery methods have since evolved from injectables to more user-friendly and affordable options, such as nasal sprays, oral tablets, and capsules.

NAD Nasal Spray vs. Injection: The Differences

NAD Effects

People supplement NAD to support their health goals at a cellular level. It's a compound that naturally helps with energy production and metabolic processes, which all influence the aging process. Many people report feeling mentally sharp, energized, and noticing an overall improvement in their appearance and well-being when they incorporate an NAD protocol into their wellness plan.

Taking this supplement is all about giving your body the support it needs at a cellular level. It’s designed to help boost energy production, support a healthy metabolism, and promote cognitive function. Many users also report feeling more mentally sharp, having better stamina, and noticing an overall improvement in their day-to-day well-being.

How NAD Injections Have Been Most Popular

NAD injections were the primary form of NAD supplementation for a long time, but they were first introduced into clinical use in the 1960s as a potential therapy for alcohol and drug addiction [1]. However, its use in this case wasn't well established enough to pursue NAD for this use officially.

The shift in NAD for anti-aging gained momentum in the 2010s, with various wellness clinics offering NAD infusions via IV therapy for enhanced energy, longevity, and neuroregeneration. By the mid-2020s, we can say that NAD injections have reached an all-time high in popularity, especially among individuals with an interest in biohacking.

The major downside to injectables is that these IV therapy treatments can be expensive ($200-500+ per session) and require clinical visits that can take hours, not to mention needles, making them inaccessible for most people.

NAD Nasal Spray: Gaining Traction

With a push to make NAD+ supplements more accessible, nasal sprays have emerged as a compelling alternative to injections and oral supplements. For one, NAD nasal sprays are non-invasive and a fast-acting delivery method.

The nasal cavity is rich in blood vessels, providing a direct path to the brain and bloodstream, which allows for a much quicker uptake of NAD compared to oral supplements. Unlike oral supplements, nasal sprays bypass the digestive system, which is where the compound can be prone to breakdown — this can also be said for injectables. However, nasal sprays are a needle-free option for getting past the digestive system, and they're much more convenient to take with you on the go.

Side Effects: Nasal Spray vs. NAD Injections

NAD+ injectable methods, whether through intravenous therapy or intramuscular injections, run the risk of infection at the injection site. And because you're often getting a more direct delivery of NAD, if not dosed correctly, or administered too quickly (during IV therapy), it's possible to experience nausea, flushing, rapid heart rate, and headaches.

Nasal sprays are generally more tolerated than injections, but some people may still experience temporary nasal irritation or dryness. These are typically brief side effects, making nasal sprays a much more comfortable option.

Which Option Would I Use: NAD Nasal Spray or Injection?

I personally prefer the nasal spray delivery method for NAD over injections — they're much more affordable, don't require appointments or needles, so overall it's less of a hassle.

Across online forms and user reviews, NAD+ injections and nasal sprays have their loyal followings. Injections have their place for potency and rapid effects, but nasal sprays are significantly more convenient and affordable, making them a fast-growing alternative. Oral pills are also a viable option, but they rank slightly below sprays in terms of absorption potential.

If I were to suggest one to try, it would be nasal sprays, as they offer a balance of effectiveness and convenience without the expense of injections.

Resources:

1. Braidy, N., Villalva, M. D., & Eeden, S. V. (2020). Sobriety and satiety: is NAD+ the answer?. Antioxidants, 9(5), 425