NADH: benefits, dosage, contraindications

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The NADH, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydride, is a coenzyme present in all living cells. It plays a crucial role in energy production, acting as an electron carrier in the respiratory chain. NADH is involved in more than a thousand metabolic reactions, making it an essential hub for proper cellular function.nnDiscovered in the early decades of the 20th century, NADH has since been recognized for its potential therapeutic applications, notably in the treatment of chronic and degenerative diseases. Its ability to increase cellular energy levels makes it a promising candidate for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome and various neurodegenerative diseases, such as the Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.nnIn clinical settings, NADH has shown beneficial results in improving cardiovascular health by increasing the energy of heart cells, reducing cholesterol and blood pressure. Furthermore, it stimulates the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are essential for mental well-being.nnClinical studies have also explored its effectiveness as a powerful antioxidant, capable of repairing damaged DNA and revitalizing cells, thereby offering prospects in cancer prevention and management.nn

Other name(s) 

Coenzyme 1

Scientific name(s)

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Hydrate

Family or group: 

Pseudovitamins

Indications

Scoring methodology

EFSA approval.

Several randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trials (> 2), including a significant number of patients (>100), with consistently positive conclusions for the indication.
Several randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trials (> 2), including a significant number of patients (>100), with positive conclusions for the indication.
One or more randomized studies, or several cohorts or epidemiological studies, with positive conclusions for the indication.
Clinical studies exist but are uncontrolled, with conclusions that may be positive or conflicting.
No clinical studies to date that can demonstrate the indication.

Fatigue
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Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition marked by intense, persistent fatigue affecting multiple body systems. Research suggests that NADH may be beneficial in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome because of its role in cellular energy production. One study showed that supplementation with NADH at a dose of 10 mg per day for 4 weeks improved symptoms in 31% of participants, with the beneficial effect continuing after 6 months of treatment. Other studies indicate that NADH, often combined with coenzyme Q10, can significantly reduce fatigue and improve quality of life and sleep in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.

Posologie

posologieOral

posologie10 mg

duration6 - months


Synergies

Therapeutic effects of oral NADH on the symptoms of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.
Effect of Dietary Coenzyme Q10 Plus NADH Supplementation on Fatigue Perception and Health-Related Quality of Life in Individuals with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Comparison of oral nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) versus conventional therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome.
Does oral coenzyme Q10 plus NADH supplementation improve fatigue and biochemical parameters in chronic fatigue syndrome?

Parkinson's disease
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Parkinson's disease, characterized by tremors, rigidity and immobility, has seen promising applications of NADH. nnClinical studies on NADH show mixed results: a small double-blind study did not show a significant improvement with NADH administered intravenously and intramuscularly. However, open-label studies report symptom improvements in some patients, with reduced disability and a better response to the drug levodopa. These results, while encouraging, require further research to confirm the efficacy of NADH in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.nn

Posologie

posologieIntravenous, oral

posologie5 - 10 mg

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)--a new therapeutic approach to Parkinson's disease. Comparison of oral and parenteral application.
Parenteral application of NADH in Parkinson's disease: clinical improvement partially due to stimulation of endogenous levodopa biosynthesis
Treatment of Parkinson's disease with NADH

Sports performance
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NADH may be beneficial for athletic performance according to several studies. For example, observational studies of elite cyclists who consumed 10 mg of NADH daily for one month showed a notable improvement in oxygen uptake and a reduction in blood lactate levels, which led to a decrease in reaction time. In another independent study conducted in Germany, athletes who took 30 mg of NADH per day for four weeks experienced better oxygen utilization and a significant reduction in blood lactate after aerobic exercise. These effects are attributed to improved bioavailability of ATP and nitric oxide within cells, thereby facilitating greater endurance and overall better performance.

Posologie

posologieOral administration

posologie10 - 20 mg

duration1 - month

Properties


Bioenergetic

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NADH is an essential intermediate in the cellular processes that generate energy from glucose in the form of ATP. Higher NADH levels in cells lead to more ATP. This means the cell has more energy available, functions better, and lives longer.

Usages associés

Fatigue, Sports performance

Neurological

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NADH stimulates the production of dopamine in nerve cells, significantly increasing its levels in the brain and blood, which positively affects libido, appetite, and cellular regeneration. Studies confirm an increase in dopamine of up to 50% in athletes after supplementation of 5 mg per day.

Usages associés

Parkinson's disease

Antioxidant

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NADH is both the primary coenzyme that triggers reduction and oxidation reactions during cellular metabolism. It is a powerful antioxidant.

Usages associés

Athletic performance

Cardiovascular

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NADH significantly reduces total and LDL cholesterol levels by up to 30% in rats and lowers blood pressure by an average of 10% in humans after 12 weeks of daily supplementation of 5 mg. This molecule also promotes cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart muscles and dilating blood vessels, thanks to increased production of nitric oxide (NO). This mechanism improves blood circulation and could be beneficial in conditions such as angina, asthma, and migraines.

Safe dosage

Adults 18 years and older: 5 mg - 20 mg

NADH is most often used at doses of 5 to 10 mg per day for a period of up to 24 months. Doses of up to 20 mg per day for 8 weeks have also been used.

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The information presented does not in any way replace medical treatment or the advice of a healthcare professional. Before taking any supplements, consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have a medical condition, are undergoing treatment, or are pregnant.