NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a vital coenzyme found in every cell of your body. It fuels energy production, supports DNA repair, and keeps your metabolism running efficiently. But as you age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, leading to fatigue, slower recovery, and signs of aging. Supplementation can help, but not all delivery methods are equally effective.
The best way to take NAD+ depends on your health goals, your lifestyle, and how quickly you want results. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we provide three carefully selected delivery options: patches, injections, and nasal sprays. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how each works, how they compare, and how to decide which is right for you.
What are my NAD+ therapy options?
At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we’ve focused on the three NAD+ delivery methods that offer the most practical benefits without unnecessary complexity: patches, injections, and nasal sprays. Each has a unique way of getting NAD+ into your system.
NAD+ patches
NAD+ patches deliver the coenzyme through your skin using transdermal absorption. You apply the patch to a clean area, and over several hours, NAD+ molecules gradually pass through the skin barrier into your bloodstream. This slow-release method avoids the digestive tract, giving you steadier levels throughout the day. Patches are discreet, comfortable, and easy to use.
NAD+ injections
NAD+ injections deliver the coenzyme directly into your bloodstream through an intramuscular or subcutaneous shot. This bypasses all absorption barriers, allowing for high bioavailability and fast results. Injections can quickly elevate NAD+ levels for a noticeable boost in energy, focus, or recovery. However, they must be administered in a controlled setting to ensure safety.
NAD+ nasal sprays
NAD+ nasal sprays work by delivering the coenzyme into the rich blood vessels inside your nasal cavity. This allows for faster absorption than oral supplements and may provide more direct access to the brain via the olfactory pathway. You simply spray into each nostril, and NAD+ enters the bloodstream within minutes. This method is convenient and portable.
Absorption efficiency
NAD+ patches
Patches offer moderate absorption because NAD+ must pass through your skin layers before reaching circulation. While not as high as injections, transdermal delivery avoids the breakdown that limits oral supplements, which can help maintain steadier NAD+ levels.
NAD+ injections
NAD+ injections achieve the highest absorption of all three methods. Since NAD+ is delivered directly into the bloodstream, virtually 100% of the dose is available for use. This is why injections often produce faster, more noticeable results.
NAD+ nasal sprays
Nasal sprays can absorb faster than patches, but typically offer slightly lower total absorption than injections. They bypass digestion and may have neurological benefits due to direct brain access, but absorption can be inconsistent if nasal passages are congested or irritated.
Onset speed
NAD+ patches
Because patches release NAD+ gradually, you may notice more subtle improvements over several hours. They are better for steady support than rapid boosts.
NAD+ injections
Injections act quickly, and many people notice an increase in energy or focus within hours. This makes them ideal for those who want rapid results, such as before a demanding workweek.
NAD+ nasal sprays
Nasal sprays typically work within 15 to 30 minutes, making them one of the fastest non-invasive methods. They can be a good “on-the-go” option for quick mental clarity or focus.
Convenience
NAD+ patches
Patches are the most convenient for daily use. You simply apply and go about your day: no appointments or special skills required. They’re discreet and can be worn under clothing.
NAD+ injections
Injections require either a clinic visit or self-administration (if prescribed), so they’re less spontaneous. However, you need them less frequently: only weekly or bi-weekly.
NAD+ nasal sprays
Nasal sprays are easy to carry and use anywhere. They’re quick, needle-free, and require no medical setting. However, they may need more frequent use than injections.
Duration of effects
NAD+ patches
NAD+ patches provide a steady release during wear, but levels taper off soon after removal. You may need to use it daily.
NAD+ injections
NAD+ injections can maintain elevated NAD+ levels for several days, even up to a week, depending on your metabolism.
NAD+ nasal sprays
NAD+ nasal sprays produce shorter bursts of elevated NAD+, usually lasting a few hours, so they’re best for short-term boosts.
So, what’s the best way to take NAD+?
The “best” way depends on your personal wellness goals:
- NAD+ patches are ideal if you want low-maintenance daily support.
- NAD+ injections are ideal if you want the most powerful, long-lasting results.
- NAD+ nasal sprays are ideal if you want a fast, portable boost without needles.
At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we tailor your NAD+ therapy to your needs, whether that’s long-term anti-aging support, improved recovery, or sharper mental focus. Our expert providers can help you decide which delivery method fits best with your health goals, lifestyle, and comfort level. By choosing the right approach, you’ll get the most from your NAD+ therapy. Contact us to schedule your consultation today!
