What Happens During NAD+ IV Therapy? Step-by-Step Breakdown

NAD+ IV therapy has been hailed as a cutting-edge treatment for boosting energy, enhancing mental clarity, and promoting anti-aging benefits. However, for those unfamiliar, it raises questions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the science behind NAD+, outline key NAD therapy benefits, and provide a step-by-step breakdown of the NAD IV procedure from start to finish.

Understanding NAD+: The Fuel for Cellular Energy

To grasp the value of NAD+ IV therapy, it helps to know what NAD+ is. NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme present in every cell of the body. It plays a critical role in converting nutrients to cellular energy (ATP), repairing DNA, and regulating our stress responses. NAD+ is like a cellular “fuel” that keeps metabolism and repair mechanisms running. Unfortunately, NAD+ levels naturally decline as we age, which scientists believe contributes to fatigue and various aging-related health issues. Factors like chronic stress, poor diet, and environmental toxins may further deplete NAD+ over time.

The growing interest in NAD+ comes from its potential to slow or even reverse aspects of aging at the cellular level. By maintaining higher NAD+ levels, cells can better repair themselves and produce energy. Research into NAD+ supplements has shown promising results in animals, including improved metabolism and enhanced organ function. The bottom line is that NAD+ is vital for energy metabolism and cellular repair, so it’s no surprise people are exploring ways to boost NAD+ as they get older.

What Is NAD Therapy?

NAD infusion is a treatment that delivers NAD+ directly into your bloodstream through an intravenous drip. The goal is to replenish your body’s NAD+ levels rapidly for therapeutic effect. Why IV? Because intravenous delivery bypasses the digestive system, ensuring the NAD+ coenzyme is absorbed at nearly 100% bioavailability. Oral NAD supplements must pass through your gut and liver, where much of the dose can be broken down or lost. In contrast, NAD IV treatment introduces NAD+ straight into circulation for maximum uptake by your cells. By infusing NAD+ via IV drip, you effectively “flood” your cells with this crucial molecule, potentially restoring levels that have declined with age or stress.

Potential Benefits of NAD+ IV Therapy

While research is ongoing, here are some of the most commonly cited benefits of NAD IV therapy:

• Boosts Energy and Fights Fatigue: NAD+ is central to cellular energy production (ATP). Replenishing NAD+ can help rev up the metabolism of your cells, which many people experience as a natural energy boost and reduced chronic fatigue.
• Enhances Brain Function and Mood: People often seek NAD+ drips to clear mental fog and sharpen concentration. Adequate NAD+ helps neurons repair and optimizes neurotransmitter levels in the brain. After NAD therapy, users frequently describe improved mental clarity, focus, and even elevated mood. NAD+ is involved in producing serotonin and other “feel-good” brain chemicals that can relieve stress.
• Supports Cellular Repair and Anti-Aging: One reason NAD+ is nicknamed the “molecular fountain of youth” is its role in DNA repair and cell maintenance. Higher NAD+ levels activate sirtuins and other pathways that repair damaged DNA and mitigate oxidative stress in cells.
• Improves Metabolism and Exercise Performance: NAD+ is required for metabolic processes that break down carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids. Restoring NAD+ might therefore improve metabolic efficiency. Some athletes utilize NAD+ IV drips to enhance training recovery and endurance.
• Aids in Detox and Addiction Recovery: High-dose NAD+ infusions can help replenish depleted nutrients and neurotransmitters in people coming off alcohol or drugs, easing withdrawal symptoms. Some clinics report that NAD+ reduces cravings and improves mood during recovery, making it a promising adjunct for substance abuse treatment. This “detox” benefit likely stems from NAD+’s role in cell repair and brain chemistry balancing during periods of intense physiological stress.
• Elevates Mood and Cognitive Health: Beyond a temporary boost, regular NAD+ therapy might support long-term brain health. NAD+ has neuroprotective qualities and has been linked in preliminary studies to improved outcomes in depression and even neurodegenerative conditions. Frequent NAD+ IV users often claim they feel more resilient to stress and notice an overall brighter mood. By raising serotonin and repairing neurons, NAD+ could have an antidepressant-like effect for some individuals.

NAD therapy benefits vary from person to person. It’s important to keep expectations realistic: NAD+ IV therapy isn’t a magic cure-all, but rather a tool to optimize your body’s biochemistry.

NAD IV Procedure: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of a typical NAD IV drip session, from check-in to post-infusion. Understanding the process can help you feel more comfortable and get the most out of your treatment.

1. Initial Consultation and Preparation: Before your first NAD+ IV therapy, you’ll typically have a brief consultation or questionnaire about your health history and goals. The medical staff will explain the procedure and have you sign consent forms. They might check basic vitals like blood pressure and heart rate to establish a baseline. It’s a good idea to arrive well-hydrated and having eaten a light meal. This can help prevent any lightheadedness since the session can be lengthy. Comfortable seating is arranged for you in a recliner or therapy chair. At this stage, the NAD therapy provider will also prepare the IV bag. NAD+ comes pre-mixed in a sterile solution. The dosage can vary; common doses range from 250 mg to 750+ mg of NAD+, depending on your treatment plan.
2. IV Line Insertion: Once you’re settled, the nurse will locate a suitable vein for the IV – usually in your forearm or hand. They’ll cleanse the area with antiseptic and may apply a tourniquet to make the vein more visible. You’ll feel a quick pinprick as the IV needle is inserted. This is similar to getting a routine IV or blood draw; most people find it only mildly uncomfortable. The needle is then removed, leaving a small plastic catheter in your vein secured with tape. This catheter is connected to the IV tubing. The NAD+ solution bag is hooked up and ready to go. The nurse will double-check that everything is secure and that the IV line is patent. At this point, you’re all set for the infusion to begin.
3. Infusion and Monitoring: Patients receiving a NAD+ infusion typically relax in a comfortable environment. The NAD+ drip has now started at a slow, controlled rate. During the infusion, patients typically relax. You can read, listen to music or podcasts, work on a laptop, or rest. Many clinics provide a calm, spa-like atmosphere with blankets, dim lighting, or a TV to help pass the time. An NAD+ infusion session usually lasts about 1–2 hours on average, though it can be adjusted longer or shorter based on your tolerance. The drip rate often starts slowly and may be incrementally increased if you’re tolerating it well. A trained professional monitors you throughout. You might notice a warmth or slight pressure in your chest, abdomen, or veins as the NAD+ enters. This is a common sensation with NAD drips. High-dose NAD+ often requires a slow drip over 3-4 hours to avoid overwhelming the body. The nurse may periodically check your blood pressure or ask how you’re feeling.
4. Completion and Post-Infusion: When the IV bag is empty, the nurse will flush the line with saline to ensure you receive every drop of NAD+. The catheter is then gently removed, and a small bandage is applied to the IV site. You’ll be asked to sit for a few minutes before getting up, just to ensure you’re not dizzy. The provider might offer you water or juice to rehydrate and flush out any metabolites. Unlike a stimulant, NAD+ doesn’t give an immediate jolt, so you may or may not feel different right away. However, many clients report leaving the session feeling clear-headed and refreshed. You might notice improved focus or energy later that day or the next morning.

Throughout the procedure, safety is a priority. NAD+ IV therapy is generally considered safe when administered by trained professionals, with minimal side effects aside from the transient discomfort mentioned. You may have slight redness or tenderness at the IV site for a day, which is normal.

NAD Injections vs. NAD IV Drip: What’s the Difference?

You may have also heard of NAD shots as an alternative to IV drips. NAD injections typically refer to intramuscular (IM) shots of a NAD+ solution, which can be self-administered or given in a clinic quickly (similar to a vitamin B12 shot). Both methods aim to raise NAD levels, but there are some key differences in experience and effectiveness. Many wellness clinics actually offer both. Your choice may depend on your health goals, the amount of time you have available, and your budget.

How Much Does NAD IV Therapy Cost?

One of the most common questions people have is the NAD IV therapy cost – and understandably so, since these specialized infusions are not cheap. Prices for NAD+ IV treatments can vary widely based on location and provider. Each NAD+ infusion session can range from around $200 to $1,500, depending on the dose and clinic setting. By comparison, other IV therapy prices tend to be lower; NAD+ is often one of the priciest offerings on IV menus due to the cost of the NAD+ compound itself and the longer administration time.

Finding the Right NAD+ IV Therapy Provider

Because NAD+ infusions are a significant investment in both time and money, you’ll want to receive treatment from a trustworthy provider. The best NAD+ IV clinics share certain qualities: trained medical staff, high standards of safety and cleanliness, and a client-centric approach. Here are some tips on choosing a NAD therapy provider wisely:

• Medical Credentials: Verify that the clinic is overseen by qualified healthcare professionals. Ideally, there should be a doctor (MD or ND) who supervises the protocols, and registered nurses or IV-certified paramedics who administer the drip. NAD+ infusions are generally safe, but only when the proper procedure is followed. A knowledgeable provider will screen you for any contraindications and monitor you appropriately. Steer clear of spas or IV drip services with no medical oversight.
• Safety and Sterility: Ask about the source and preparation of their NAD+ solution. Some less-reputable places might compound their own IV mixes in-house without proper sterile technique. The clinic you choose should use high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade NAD+ and prepare IVs in a clean, controlled environment. All needles and supplies must be single-use and sterile. Don’t hesitate to inquire about their cleanliness protocols – reputable providers will be glad you asked.
• Experience and Reviews: Look for clinics or services that have a track record of administering NAD+ therapy. Because NAD infusions are somewhat specialized, you want a provider who has extensive experience with them. Consistently positive feedback about outcomes and care is a good sign. If you know someone who has done NAD+ IV therapy, ask about their experience and provider.
• Customization and Support: A quality provider will tailor the NAD protocol to your specific needs. This means adjusting the dose or infusion speed based on your response, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. They should also provide guidance on how to prepare and what to do after. Clinics that integrate NAD therapy into a broader wellness program may offer more holistic support. While not essential, this could enhance your overall results.

Once you’ve identified a promising clinic, the next consideration is convenience. Many providers today offer online scheduling to make it easy to get started. In fact, you can often book anti-aging IV therapy online through the clinic’s website in a few clicks. This online IV therapy booking process allows you to select your infusion type, choose a date and time, and complete the intake forms electronically. It’s a modern convenience that saves you from long phone calls or wait times. For instance, at ModMeds, clients can schedule a NAD+ IV infusion through a simple web portal, choosing their preferred clinic location and time slot. This kind of digital booking system reflects a provider that values client experience and efficiency.

In the quest for longevity and wellness, NAD+ has emerged as a promising tool. Whether you’re an athlete looking for an edge, a burned-out professional seeking rejuvenation, or someone exploring longevity biohacks, NAD+ IV therapy offers a glimpse into the future of functional medicine. It’s about enabling your body to operate at its best by replenishing an essential element we tend to lose with age. If you do give it a go, ensure you are in qualified hands, relax during the process, and listen to your body. You might find that a few sessions of NAD+ make you feel like the batteries in your cells have been recharged to full capacity. And feeling recharged from within is arguably one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself on your wellness journey.

Sources

• Verywell Health – “Is NAD+ a Miracle Anti-Aging Treatment, or Is It Just Hype?” (February 2025)
• Integrative Physical Health – “The Benefits of NAD IV Therapy”
• U.S. Food & Drug Administration – “FDA highlights concerns with IV clinics compounding drug products under insanitary conditions”