What is NAD+?

NAD+ stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. It is a coenzyme — a molecule that works alongside enzymes — found in every living cell. The plus sign denotes its oxidised form, which is the active form that accepts electrons during energy metabolism.

NAD+ declines with age for several reasons: the enzyme NAMPT, which is responsible for producing NAD+, becomes less active; the enzyme CD38 (which degrades NAD+) becomes more active; and cumulative DNA damage drives sustained PARP enzyme activity that consumes NAD+ faster than it can be replenished. By the time a person reaches their 50s, tissue NAD+ levels are typically 40–60% lower than in young adulthood.

NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside) are precursor molecules that the body converts into NAD+ intracellularly. When taken orally, NAD+ itself is broken down in the digestive tract before it can enter cells, which is why precursors are typically used in oral supplements. The Longevity Pen® delivers NAD+ subcutaneously — bypassing the digestive system entirely for more direct absorption.

NAD+ is essential for mitochondrial energy production. Inside the mitochondria, NAD+ acts as an electron carrier in the process of oxidative phosphorylation — the chain of reactions that converts nutrients into ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the cell’s primary energy currency. When NAD+ levels fall, mitochondrial output decreases and cells have less energy available for all their functions.

NAD+ is required by PARP enzymes (poly ADP-ribose polymerases), which are the primary responders to DNA damage. PARP enzymes consume NAD+ to signal repair sites and recruit repair machinery. When DNA damage accumulates — as it does with age and UV exposure — PARP activity increases and NAD+ is consumed at a higher rate. Maintaining adequate NAD+ levels supports the cell’s capacity to keep up with ongoing repair demand.

Sirtuins (SIRT1–SIRT7) are a family of proteins that regulate metabolism, stress resistance, inflammation, and gene expression. They are often referred to as longevity proteins. Sirtuins are NAD+-dependent — they cannot function without NAD+ as a co-substrate. When NAD+ levels are sufficient, sirtuins are active and support mitochondrial health, cellular clean-up (autophagy), and reduced inflammation. When NAD+ is depleted, sirtuin activity drops.

NAD+ is a naturally occurring molecule in the body. Oral NMN and NR supplementation have been studied in multiple human clinical trials and are generally well tolerated. Subcutaneous delivery with the Longevity Pen® avoids digestive side effects. As with any supplementation, we recommend consulting a healthcare professional before starting, particularly if you have an existing health condition or take medication.

The recommended protocol starts with a loading phase of 50mg per day for three consecutive days, followed by a maintenance dose of 50mg every two to three days depending on personal energy levels and recovery goals. Each 500mg NAD+ cartridge provides up to 10 standard doses of 50mg. The full dosing guide is included with your Starter Kit.

Yes. NAD+ is sensitive to heat and light. Store cartridges in the refrigerator when not in use, or in the provided travel case with the cooling pads when on the go. Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures above 25°C. Properly stored cartridges maintain full potency throughout their shelf life.

NAD+ and autophagy — the cell’s recycling system — are connected through sirtuin signalling. SIRT1, which depends on NAD+, promotes autophagy by activating key autophagy proteins. Together, NAD+ and autophagy represent two complementary sides of cellular maintenance: NAD+ powers and repairs, while autophagy clears and recycles. Both decline with age, and both are areas of active longevity research.