What Is NAD+?
A South African Guide

NAD+ is a coenzyme found in every living cell, and without it your cells cannot turn food into usable energy. Interest in NAD+ has grown quickly because levels fall as we age, and topping them up is being studied as a way to support energy, mental clarity and cellular repair. This guide explains what NAD+ actually is, what the research does and does not show, who it suits, and how to start on a doctor-led programme in South Africa.

Everything here was reviewed by Dr Chris van Zyl (registered as M.C. van Zyl, HPCSA MP0287067), who is licensed to both prescribe and dispense medicines under a Section 22C dispensing licence. NAD+ is dispensed on a valid script after a medical questionnaire, with a consultation arranged when your screening calls for one.

What is NAD+?

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme present in every cell in the body. Its job is to carry electrons between molecules, which is the chemistry that lets your cells release energy from food. It also acts as a fuel source for a group of repair and signalling enzymes. Put simply, NAD+ is one of the most fundamental molecules in human metabolism, which is why so much longevity research has focused on it.

What does NAD+ actually do in the body?

NAD+ has three well-established roles. First, energy production: it is essential to the mitochondrial reactions that generate ATP, the fuel your cells run on. Second, DNA repair signalling: enzymes called PARPs consume NAD+ when they repair damaged DNA. Third, cell regulation: it activates sirtuins, a family of proteins involved in how cells respond to stress and ageing. Because all three depend on available NAD+, low levels affect energy, repair and regulation at the same time.

Why do NAD+ levels decline with age?

Research indicates NAD+ levels fall meaningfully from middle age onward. The decline appears to come from a combination of reduced production and increased consumption: as cumulative DNA damage and inflammation rise with age, the repair enzymes that use NAD+ draw on it more heavily, while the body’s ability to recycle it becomes less efficient. This is the reasoning behind supplementing it, though it is worth being clear that reversing the decline is still an active area of research rather than settled science.

What are the benefits of NAD+ therapy?

The most commonly reported benefits are improved energy, sharper mental clarity and better recovery from physical exertion. These are consistent with NAD+’s role in mitochondrial energy production. Laboratory and early clinical research also points to support for DNA repair, metabolic health and reduced cellular stress. It is important to be honest about the evidence: much of the strongest data is preclinical, and human trials are ongoing. NAD+ is best understood as support for normal cellular function, not a treatment for any disease.

Who is NAD+ therapy suitable for?

NAD+ tends to suit people dealing with persistent low energy or burnout, those recovering from illness or heavy training loads, people noticing brain fog or reduced focus, and anyone building a longevity or healthy-ageing routine. It is popular with high-demand professionals and with athletes managing recovery. Suitability is confirmed by our doctor during screening, which is where any interactions or contraindications get picked up.

What is the difference between an NAD+ IV drip and an NAD+ injection pen?

An IV drip delivers a large single dose directly into the bloodstream over a session that usually runs a few hours, and has to be done in a clinic. An injection pen delivers a smaller dose subcutaneously in a few seconds, done at home, more regularly. Neither is simply better: the drip front-loads a bigger dose, while the pen is far easier to sustain over months and can be couriered anywhere in South Africa. mobivIVe supplies the pen format for exactly that reason, and also offers IV therapy for those who prefer it.

How often should you take NAD+?

Dosing depends on your goal, your baseline and how you respond, which is why it is set by the doctor rather than a fixed rule. Pen protocols are commonly weekly or twice weekly, with the schedule reviewed as you go. Consistency over several weeks matters more than any single large dose.

How quickly will I notice a difference?

Many people report steadier energy and clearer thinking within the first week or two, though this varies considerably between individuals. Effects generally build with consistent use over four to eight weeks. Results depend heavily on your starting point: someone genuinely depleted through burnout or illness often notices more than someone already sleeping and eating well.

Are there side effects?

NAD+ is generally well tolerated. With IV infusions, people sometimes experience nausea, flushing, warmth or lightheadedness, which is usually managed by slowing the infusion rate. With the subcutaneous pen, side effects are typically limited to mild reactions at the injection site. Tell our doctor about any symptoms so your protocol can be adjusted.

Who should avoid NAD+ therapy?

NAD+ needs careful assessment, and may not be appropriate, if you have an active or hormone-sensitive cancer, significant liver or kidney disease, uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, or certain psychiatric conditions, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is precisely what the medical questionnaire and doctor review are for, and why NAD+ is dispensed on a script rather than sold over the counter.

Can NAD+ be combined with other peptides?

Yes, and it often is. NAD+ is commonly used alongside recovery or longevity protocols as part of a broader programme, under doctor guidance so that dosing and timing make sense together. Our team will map out a combination that fits your goals rather than stacking products for the sake of it. You can see the full range on our peptides page.

How do I get NAD+ in South Africa?

NAD+ is a prescription item, so it starts with a short medical questionnaire that our registered doctor reviews, with a consultation arranged when your screening calls for one. Once a script is issued, your prefilled pen is couriered anywhere in South Africa with clear dosing instructions. Pricing, pen sizes and the full breakdown are on our NAD+ therapy page.