NAD⁺ Subcutaneous Research Dosing Protocol

[Randy]

For research use only. Not medical advice.

Overview

NAD⁺ is essential for mitochondrial energy production, DNA repair, and cellular resilience.
While most clinical research uses IV administration, subcutaneous NAD⁺ has become increasingly common for maintenance, daily recovery, and longevity-focused research.
Because NAD⁺ can cause overstimulation or fatigue in sensitive subjects, gradual titration is strongly recommended.

Daily Dosing Protocol (Subcutaneous)

Standard Daily Range

50–100 mg once daily

Lower doses are used for sensitivity; higher doses for mitochondrial and recovery-focused protocols.

Titration Schedule

Week 1 — Initiation

50 mg daily

Starting low reduces the likelihood of insomnia, stimulation, agitation, or paradoxical fatigue.

Week 2 — Early Ramp

75 mg daily

Weeks 3–8 — Working Dose

100 mg daily

Most research models stabilize at this level.

Weeks 9–16 — Extended Maintenance

100 mg daily

Continued use supports sustained mitochondrial and cellular benefits.

Timing

Morning or early-afternoon dosing is preferred.

Evening dosing may disrupt sleep in sensitive subjects due to NAD⁺’s role in cellular energy cycling.

Common timing strategies:

Standard

Morning fasted → clean energy and mental clarity throughout the day.

Training Support

1–2 hours pre-training for enhanced mitochondrial output.

Cycle Length

Common NAD⁺ research cycles:

8–16 weeks on protocol, followed by

2–4 weeks off if cyclical use is desired.

Many researchers run NAD⁺ continuously due to its benign safety profile.

Common Research Notes

Rapid titration can cause temporary side effects:

insomnia

restlessness

increased anxiety

transient fatigue (“NAD crash”)

Slow, steady increases eliminate most issues.

NAD⁺ pairs synergistically with NMN, NR, TMG, glutathione, and mitochondrial peptides (SS-31, MOTS-c).

[PeptidePete]

Been doing 100mg per day, every day for several weeks now. I really like this stuff, always a rush for 10-15 minutes post injection. Paired with a comprehensive stack including SS-31/MOTS/ and now Gluta.

[Anthony]

Just wondering how sub q NAD+ compares to sublingual NMN? Seems like I’ve seen a lot that the NMN works to create NAD+ inside the cell better, or has a more lasting impact. Would like to try it out, but just wondered if anyone had feedback on the preferred type.

[Randy]

They don't compare. One doesn't sting though so there's that.

[MyB]

My rat had been taking NR Tru Niagen 1000mg for a month before it started pinning NAD+.
No comparison.
Pinning NAD+ is superior.

[Anthony]

@MyB I appreciate you sharing that comparison and feedback! Just curious, what was your rat using for a dose/frequency of NAD+ to see the notable improvement?

[MyB]

I started the dose at 10mg, moved to 20, then 30. I felt it when I moved to 20. I’m conservative and just pin 20mg daily. It’s just enough to feel a difference and that works for me. Your mileage may very.

[MyB]

Dosage is dependent on what your research goals are with your rat.

[MyB]

@anthony
Another note, my rat is still on Tru Niagen NR. (I bought it and they I’m not gonna waste it.) I suspect this may be why my rat demonstrates a difference they can feel at such a lower dose, compared to Randy’s protocol listed above.

[jamiekortan]

Everyday? I was hoping to get away with 2 or 3 times per week.

[Randy]

@jamiek You will figure out what works for your research. Some are doing larger doses 3x a week. Some are doing as low as 20mg a day.

[jamiekortan]

@Randy that’s good to know. My plan is the work up to 150mg per week dosing 2x per week.

[diegoc]

I have a 500mg NAD bottle, dont remember if i need to add a min of 5ml bac