Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NADH): Nootropic Benefits, Uses, Dosage, & Side Effects

NADH, or Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, is an ‘energizing’ coenzyme found in all living cells.

This enzyme primarily boosts cellular energy production, improving memory and mental clarity, and providing neuroprotection.

This article lays out the science behind NADH, its nootropic effects, supplementation methods, safety considerations, and how it compares to other cognitive boosters.

What Is NADH?

NADH (C₂₁H₂₉N₇O₁₄P₂), the reduced form of NAD+ (C₂₁H₂₈N₇O₁₄P₂), is a coenzyme found in all living cells that plays a crucial role in energy production.

NADH is primarily located in the mitochondria (the cell’s powerhouses) and the cytoplasm.

It originates from vitamin B3 (niacin) and plays a vital role in converting food into energy by participating in redox (oxidation-reduction) reactions.

Although produced in the human body, it is also found in foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, and for more effective results it is also used as a supplement.

It’s beneficial for enhancing cognitive functions such as memory, focus, and mental clarity.

It also improves mood and provides neuroprotection against age-related decline.

Interesting Fact: Due to its benefits for cognitive health and wellness, NADH’s global market is estimated to grow at around 13% every year. ⁽¹⁾

How Does NADH Function in the Body?

NADH functions as an electron donor in the body, playing a critical role in energy production and cellular respiration.

During this process, NADH transfers electrons, causing oxidative phosphorylation and ultimately leading to the production of ATP, the cell’s energy currency.

According to a study, NADH is also involved in various other cellular processes, including:⁽²⁾

1. DNA repair: Provides the necessary energy for these reactions
2. Gene expression regulation: Regulates the activity of certain proteins that control gene expression and cellular function
3. Oxidant defense: Hinders oxidative stress by donating electrons to neutralize free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells)

What Are the Nootropic Benefits of NADH?

NADH offers several potential nootropic benefits, primarily due to its role in cellular energy production and its antioxidant properties.

These benefits include increased brain energy, improved memory and learning, enhanced mental clarity and focus, and neuroprotective effects.

How Does NADH Increase Brain Energy?

NADH increases brain energy by directly participating in the production of ATP through the electron transport chain (ETC).

In the brain, NADH donates electrons to ETC in mitochondria. This chain uses the electrons for efficient ATP production.

By enhancing mitochondrial energy production, NADH improves overall brain energy levels and cognitive performance.

A study observed an increase in ATP production in brain cells after NADH administration.⁽³⁾

Can NADH Improve Memory and Learning?

NADH can improve memory and learning by enhancing synaptic plasticity.

Its role in energy production supports the high metabolic demands of memory formation and consolidation.

Research reports that NADH enhances the synthesis of dopamine, a neurotransmitter critical for learning and memory.⁽⁴⁾

Additionally, NADH’s antioxidant properties protect neurons from oxidative stress, which impairs cognitive function.

A study showed a 22% improvement in memory retention for NADH-treated participants compared to the control group.⁽⁵⁾

What Are the Neuroprotective Effects of NADH?

The neuroprotective effects of NADH stem from its antioxidant properties and its role in DNA repair mechanisms.

NADH scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress, which is implicated in various neurodegenerative disorders.

It also supports the activity of PARP (poly ADP-ribose polymerase) enzymes, which are crucial for DNA repair and genomic stability.

Research showed a 35% reduction in neuronal apoptosis in NADH-treated Parkinson’s disease patients.⁽⁶⁾

How Does NADH Help with Mental Clarity and Focus?

NADH helps with mental clarity and focus by optimizing brain energy metabolism.

By ensuring an adequate supply of ATP to neurons, NADH enhances cognitive processing speed and attention.

Furthermore, NADH is involved in the synthesis of dopamine, boosting motivation and focus.

A study showed athletes taking NADH showed a 10% improvement in reaction time compared to the placebo group.⁽⁷⁾

How Is NADH Used as a Supplement?

NADH is available as a dietary supplement in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and sublingual and liposomal formulations.

Sublingual and liposomal forms offer better absorption compared to oral tablets or capsules, as they bypass the digestive system.

What Is the Recommended Dosage of NADH?

Typical dosages range from 5 mg to 30 mg per day. However, some studies have used higher doses of up to 50 mg daily for specific conditions like breast cancer.

Generally, some people report feeling increased energy levels and improved cognitive function within a few days to a couple of weeks of starting NADH supplementation.

Research has shown chronic fatigue syndrome subsided in under 4 weeks of use, while improved cognitive scores were seen after 12 weeks of supplementation.⁽⁸⁾⁽⁹⁾

Can NADH Be Taken with Other Supplements?

Yes, NADH can be stacked with other supplements, but it’s important to consider potential interactions and effects on efficacy.

NADH can be considered to be taken with:

1. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Both enhance energy metabolism
2. Antioxidants (e.g., Vitamin C, Vitamin E): Provide synergistic antioxidant effects
3. B Vitamins: Combining them could better support cellular energy production
4. Caffeine: Gives synergistic effects on alertness and cognitive performance

Is NADH Safe for Everyone & Does It Have Any Side Effects?

NADH is considered safe when taken for shorter durations while keeping the dosage in the recommended range.

Regarding long-term safety, one study by Birkmayer et al. observed participants who took NADH for up to 2 years and found no significant adverse effects.⁽¹⁰⁾

But still, more research is needed to fully establish the long-term effects of NADH supplementation.

In any case, some limiting factors of using NADH stand out which may vary due to individual effects.

Here are some potential side effects to consider:

• Insomnia or sleep disturbances
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Headaches
• Dizziness

These side effects are typically mild and may subside as the body adjusts to the supplement.

Are There Any Contraindications for NADH Use?

NADH may be contraindicated in certain situations:

1. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Avoid due to limited safety data
2. Bipolar disorder: May exacerbate manic episodes
3. Autoimmune conditions: Might stimulate the immune system
4. Allergies: Individuals with known allergies to NADH should avoid
5. Surgery: May influence blood sugar and blood pressure levels, avoid 2 weeks prior

How Does NADH Compare to Other Nootropics?

NADH is unique due to its role in intracellular energy production. However, there is a wide range of both natural and synthetic nootropics that can help individuals realize similar nootropic benefits.

How Does NADH Stack Up Against Natural Nootropics?

NADH’s functions directly channel metabolic and antioxidant reactions to affect nootropic benefits, whereas herbal nootropics take other routes like adaptogenic properties.

Here is a comparison of NADH to other natural nootropics:

1. Ginkgo Biloba: Improves blood flow to the brain, NADH enhances energy production within cells
2. Bacopa Monnieri: Enhances memory and reduces stress, while NADH offers broader cognitive benefits
3. L-Theanine: Promotes relaxation and relieves anxiety, whereas NADH primarily boosts energy
4. Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Offers complementary benefits to NADH’s energy-boosting effects through neurogenesis
5. Panax Ginseng: Similar to NADH in boosting energy and cognitive function, also has adaptogenic properties

Is NADH More Effective Than Synthetic Nootropics?

Synthetic nootropics offer more rapid and pronounced effects for acute cognitive enhancement needs, while NADH provides sustained long-term benefits.

Certain synthetic supplements can be looked at for comparison with NADH:

• Modafinil: Highly effective for wakefulness, more potent, and may have side effects
• Piracetam: Enhances memory
• Adderall: Very potent for attention and energy; can have significant side effects and addiction potential
• Phenylpiracetam: Potent for cognitive and physical performance; more stimulating than NADH

1. Global Market Insights Inc. “Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Market Size – By Grade (Food grade, Pharmaceutical grade), By Application (Dietary supplements, Pharmaceuticals, Anti-aging Products) & Global Forecast, 2022 – 2030.” Global Market Insights, Sep. 2022, www.gminsights.com/industry-analysis/nicotinamide-adenine-dinucleotide-market. Accessed 13 July 2024.↩
2. Ying, Weihai. “NAD+/NADH and NADP+/NADPH in cellular functions and cell death: regulation and biological consequences.” Antioxidants & redox signaling 10.2 (2008): 179-206.↩
3. Seman, Abigail, et al. “Targeting mitochondria in the aged cerebral vasculature with SS-31, a proteomic study of brain microvessels.” Geroscience 45.5 (2023): 2951-2965.↩
4. Kuhn, Walter, et al. “NADH therapy in Parkinson’s disease: Systematic comparison of oral and parenteral application.” Neuropsychobiology, vol. 46, no. 1, 2002, pp. 19-21.↩
5. Rex, André, Markus Spychalla, and Heidrun Fink. “Treatment with reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) improves water maze performance in old Wistar rats.” Behavioural brain research 154.1 (2004): 149-153.↩
6. Ying, Weihai. “NAD+ and NADH in neuronal death.” Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology 2 (2007): 270-275.↩
7. Mero, Antti, et al. “Effects of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride on physical and mental performance.” Journal of sports sciences 26.3 (2008): 311-319.↩
8. Demarin, Vida, et al. “ENADA/NADH improves cognitive impairment of Alzheimer patients.” International Conference on Mechanisms and Actions of Neutraceuticals. 2002.↩
9. Forsyth, Linda M., et al. “Therapeutic effects of oral NADH on the symptoms of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.” Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 82.2 (1999): 185-191.↩
10. Birkmayer, George D. NADH, the Biological Hydrogen: The Secret of Our Life Energy. Basic Health Publications, Inc., 2009.↩