Nicotinamide Riboside (NR): Raise Your NAD+ Levels

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Along with providing information on whether Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) supplements might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy high quality supplements. Order online through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary to get the best prices and free shipping on professional-grade supplements.

If you’ve been hearing a lot about anti-aging lately, it’s partly because of discoveries related to substances including nicotinamide riboside (NR) that are able to raise the levels of a critical energy production molecule called NAD. In this article, we discuss the ways you can raise your NAD levels both naturally, and through supplementation with NR.

What Is NR?

NR stands for nicotinamide riboside, which is a form of Vitamin B3. It is a molecule that can be converted into NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) in the cells. NAD+ is a molecule that plays a vital role in cellular functions, including energy production and DNA repair.

NR is often used as a dietary supplement to increase NAD+ levels and support various biological processes. It is believed to have potential benefits for metabolism, energy levels, and overall cellular health. Ongoing research is being conducted to better understand the effects and potential uses of NR in promoting well-being.

[PMC10240123]

What Are The Health Benefits of Nicotinamide Riboside?

Here are some of the notable health benefits associated with NR:

  • Boosts NAD+ Levels: NR is an efficient way to increase NAD+ levels in the body. NAD+ is essential for energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling, and its levels decline with age. [PMC5876407]
  • Supports Healthy Aging: By increasing NAD+ levels, NR may help counteract some aspects of aging at the cellular level. [PMC3616312] This includes improving mitochondrial function, protecting against cellular damage, and possibly extending lifespan. [PMC9571518]
  • Improves Metabolic Health: Some studies suggest that NR supplementation can improve metabolic markers such as energy metabolism in muscles, reduce insulin sensitivity, and lower blood sugar levels, which are beneficial for metabolic health. [PMC3616313] [PMC7398770]
  • Neuroprotection: NR may have neuroprotective effects, potentially supporting brain health by enhancing cognitive function, increasing brain NAD+ levels, and offering protection against neurodegenerative diseases. [PMC9370773]
  • Muscle Function: Increasing NAD+ levels through NR supplementation could improve muscle function and endurance, potentially countering age-related muscle decline. [PMC6702140]
  • Cardiovascular Health: There is emerging evidence that NR could support cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function, reducing oxidative stress, and lowering blood pressure in certain contexts. [PMC8463245 🐁 ]
  • May Reduce Cancer Risk: Preliminary research suggests that boosting NAD+ levels through NR supplementation could play a role in cancer prevention and complement cancer treatment by enhancing the efficacy of certain therapies and reducing side effects. [PMC10055624 🐀 ]

A Bit of Chemistry: How Nicotinamide Riboside Relates to NMN and NAD+

NAD+ is a powerhouse molecule in our cells, crucial for turning the food we eat into the energy (ATP) our bodies use. It also helps keep our cells healthy by playing a key role in processes like repairing DNA and controlling how genes turn on and off. However, as we age or when our cells are under stress, our levels of NAD+ can drop, which can lead to less energy and more cellular damage. That’s why maintaining good levels of NAD+ is vital for staying energetic and healthy as we age.

One way our body makes NAD+ is by converting a form of vitamin B3 known as nicotinamide riboside (NR) into another compound called nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), and then finally into NAD+. This conversion process starts when NR is taken up into our cells and transformed into NMN. This step is crucial because NMN is the direct stepping stone to creating NAD+. After NMN is made, it quickly turns into NAD+ with the help of other cellular enzymes, ensuring our cells have the fuel they need to function optimally.

Can You Raise NAD Levels Without Supplements?

The answer is yes, and it’s simple but not necessarily easy. Diet and exercise. Here is the research on how this age-old advice works to raise your NAD levels.

Calorie Restriction

Calorie restriction (CR) is a dietary intervention that involves reducing daily caloric intake by 20-40% without causing malnutrition. It has been shown to extend lifespan, improve health, and delay age-related diseases in various organisms, including yeast, worms, flies, rodents, and potentially humans. One of the mechanisms through which calorie restriction exerts its beneficial effects is by boosting NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) levels in cells.

NAD is a crucial coenzyme that plays a vital role in many cellular processes, including metabolism, energy production, and DNA repair. It is also a substrate for enzymes like sirtuins, which are involved in regulating cellular aging and maintaining cellular health. Higher NAD levels have been associated with improved cellular function, increased stress resistance, and delayed aging.

Calorie restriction boosts NAD levels through several mechanisms:

  • Enhanced NAD biosynthesis: Calorie restriction stimulates the expression of NAMPT (Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase), an enzyme involved in the salvage pathway of NAD biosynthesis. Increased NAMPT activity results in higher NAD production, contributing to higher cellular NAD levels.
  • Reduced NAD consumption: Calorie restriction reduces the activity of enzymes that consume NAD, like poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) and CD38. PARPs are involved in DNA repair and cellular stress response, while CD38 is a multifunctional enzyme associated with NAD degradation. By reducing their activity, CR conserves NAD levels in cells.
  • Shift in energy metabolism: CR promotes a shift from glucose metabolism to fatty acid oxidation, which favors the production of ketone bodies. This metabolic shift increases the NAD+/NADH ratio, thereby making more NAD+ available for cellular processes, including the activation of sirtuins.
  • Increased mitochondrial function: Calorie restriction enhances mitochondrial biogenesis and function, which can boost NAD+ levels. Improved mitochondrial function results in higher energy production, more efficient use of nutrients, and reduced oxidative stress, which together contribute to increased NAD+ levels.

In summary, calorie restriction boosts NAD levels through various mechanisms that involve enhancing NAD biosynthesis, reducing NAD consumption, shifting energy metabolism, and improving mitochondrial function. These changes promote cellular health and stress resistance, ultimately contributing to the lifespan-extending and health-promoting effects of calorie restriction.

Exercise

Exercise is another effective way to increase NAD levels in the body. Regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function, enhanced muscle strength, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. Several mechanisms are involved in the increase of NAD levels during and after exercise:

  • Enhanced NAD biosynthesis: Exercise stimulates the expression of the enzyme NAMPT (Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase), which is involved in the NAD salvage pathway. This pathway recycles nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) into NAD, thereby increasing its production. Higher NAMPT expression results in higher cellular NAD levels.
  • Increased AMPK activation: Exercise leads to an increase in the cellular energy demand, which in turn results in the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is a cellular energy sensor that helps maintain energy homeostasis by promoting catabolic processes and inhibiting anabolic processes. AMPK activation can upregulate NAD production by increasing the expression of NAMPT and promoting mitochondrial biogenesis.
  • Improved mitochondrial function: Exercise enhances mitochondrial biogenesis, function, and efficiency, leading to an increase in cellular NAD+ levels. Enhanced mitochondrial function promotes better nutrient utilization and reduces oxidative stress, which can contribute to increased NAD+ levels.
  • Shift in energy metabolism: Exercise promotes a shift in energy metabolism from glucose metabolism to fatty acid oxidation. This metabolic shift increases the NAD+/NADH ratio, making more NAD+ available for cellular processes, including sirtuin activation.
  • Sirtuin activation: Sirtuins are a family of NAD+-dependent enzymes that play a significant role in regulating cellular aging and maintaining cellular health. Exercise-induced increases in NAD+ levels promote sirtuin activation, which in turn contributes to improved cellular function, stress resistance, and mitochondrial biogenesis.

To summarize, exercise can increase NAD levels through various mechanisms, including enhanced NAD biosynthesis, increased AMPK activation, improved mitochondrial function, a shift in energy metabolism, and sirtuin activation. Regular physical activity not only boosts NAD levels but also promotes overall health and well-being.

Is NR helpful For Aging Muscles and Inflammation?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplements hold promise for addressing age-related muscle decline and inflammation. Studies suggest that NR supplementation may enhance muscle health in aging individuals by increasing molecules related to energy production in skeletal muscles. Although NR did not directly improve mitochondrial function, it improved the availability of essential energy-related molecules, potentially supporting muscle strength and mobility with age. Additionally, NR showed promise in reducing circulating inflammatory cytokines, indicating potential benefits for managing inflammation associated with aging and various inflammatory conditions. These findings underscore NR’s potential as a valuable supplement for promoting muscle health and addressing inflammation in aging individuals. PMC6702140

NR (nicotinamide riboside) May Be More Effective For People Near Their Ideal Weight

NR is degraded by an immune component called CD38. CD38 is higher in people who are at higher weights. This may be why NR is not found to increase NAD in studies with subjects carrying extra weight. But there’s an alternative. For people whose BMI numbers are above 30, it’s important to know that NMN supplementation has been shown to be effective in raising NAD levels in all groups studied. Visit our NMN page here.

[PMID: 29514064]

Is NR Safe?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is safe for most people when taken as a supplement within the recommended dosages. However, research on NR is still relatively limited, and more long-term studies are needed to fully understand its safety profile. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting NR supplementation, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have pre-existing health conditions, or are taking medications, to ensure its safety and suitability for your individual needs.

What Other Supplements Interact with NR?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and a popular supplement used to increase NAD+ levels. When considering supplements that interact with NR, it’s essential to keep in mind that interactions can be synergistic (complementary) or antagonistic (inhibiting).

Here are some supplements that can interact with NR:

  • Synergistic interactions: Resveratrol: Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound found in grapes, berries, and peanuts. It is known to activate sirtuins, which are NAD+-dependent enzymes involved in regulating cellular aging and maintaining cellular health. The combination of NR and resveratrol may provide synergistic effects on cellular health and longevity by increasing NAD+ levels and promoting sirtuin activation.b. Pterostilbene: Pterostilbene is a naturally occurring compound found in blueberries, which has a similar structure to resveratrol. It also activates sirtuins and may have synergistic effects when combined with NR.c. Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin has been shown to increase NAD+ levels and may work synergistically with NR to promote cellular health.
  • Antagonistic interactions: Nicotinic acid (niacin): Nicotinic acid, also known as niacin, is another precursor of NAD+. High doses of niacin can compete with NR for the same metabolic pathways and enzymes, potentially limiting the effectiveness of NR supplementation. But, moderate doses of niacin may not have significant antagonistic effects on NR. Nicotinamide is a form of vitamin B3 and another precursor of NAD+. It can potentially compete with NR for the same enzymes, thus inhibiting the effectiveness of NR supplementation. Additionally, nicotinamide can inhibit sirtuin activity, which might counteract some of the benefits of increased NAD+ levels from NR supplementation.

What Medications and Supplements Interact With NR?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a form of vitamin B3 and a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). While NR is generally considered safe, there is limited research on potential interactions between NR and medications. However, some medications may interact with NR due to their effects on NAD+ metabolism or vitamin B3. Some possible interactions include:

  • Blood Pressure Medications: NR has the ability to reduce arterial stiffness and improve systolic blood pressure. This is a very good thing, but if you are taking medication to lower your blood pressure, be sure to monitor for changes in blood pressure when taking NR. [PMC9127073]
  • Anticonvulsant medications: Certain anticonvulsants, such as valproic acid and carbamazepine, can reduce the levels of NAD+ in the body. Supplementing with NR may counteract this effect by increasing NAD+ levels. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before combining NR with anticonvulsants, as the interaction may affect the effectiveness of the medication.
  • NR May Reduce Side Effects of Statins: Statins are medications used to lower cholesterol levels. Some studies suggest that statins can reduce NAD+ levels in cells, which might lead to muscle-related side effects. Combining NR with statins could potentially help restore NAD+ levels and alleviate some side effects. However, more research is needed to confirm this interaction, and it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before using NR with statins.
  • Niacin or nicotinic acid May Reduce the Benefit of NR: High doses of niacin or nicotinic acid, another form of vitamin B3, can compete with NR for the same metabolic pathways and enzymes. This competition may reduce the effectiveness of NR supplementation. If you are taking niacin for therapeutic purposes, it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider before adding NR to your regimen.

When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.

Thank you for your support!

Order NR Supplements


TruNiagen 500 mg NR

Help drive cellular energy production and promote cellular repair with TRU NIAGEN® PRO 500. This supplement delivers the highest dose available today of NIAGEN® nicotinamide riboside (NR).  With 500mg of NR in each capsule, it increases NAD+ by an estimated 80%.**

 Available only through licensed healthcare professionals, TRU NIAGEN® PRO 500:
• Significantly increases NAD+*
• Supports ongoing mitochondrial health*
• Increases cellular energy production*

 *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
**Based on the dose-dependent clinical effects of 100, 300, and 1000 mg/day Niagen®
Adults take 1 capsule daily or as recommended by your healthcare professional

Amount Per 1 Capsule Serving
NIAGEN® … 500mg (nicotinamide riboside chloride)


TruNiagen 300 mg NR

Tru Niagen® Pro 300 supports the body’s natural energy production mechanisms, helping to maintain long-term health by counteracting the cellular effects of aging. Its key ingredient, Niagen® nicotinamide riboside (NR), is a novel form of vitamin B3 clinically proven to safely increase NAD+ levels – and maintain those elevated levels with continued daily use*.  
Tru Niagen® PRO 300:
• Promotes youthful cellular metabolism*
• Boosts cells’ ability to make energy, with NAD*
• Helps maintain health, longer*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Adults take 1 capsule daily or as recommended by your healthcare professional.

Serving Size: 1 Vegetarian Capsule

Amount Per Serving
NIAGEN® … 300mg (nicotinamide riboside chloride)


Mito-NR™ – 300mg NR, 200 mg CoQ10

A uniquely formulated to support cellular energy production and healthy aging.* This formula contains clinically relevant amounts of Niagen®, a form of nicotinamide riboside chloride (NR), coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and geranylgeraniol (GG). NR is a variation of vitamin B3 (niacin) and is a building block to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ is found in every living cell and is essential to many important cellular processes, including energy production.

Suggested Use: 
Take 2 capsules per day with a meal or as directed by your health-care practitioner.

Serving Size: 2 Capsules

Amount Per Serving
Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride
 … 300mg
(Niagen®)
Coenzyme Q10 … 200mg
Trans-Geranylgeraniol … 50mg
(GG-Gold®)


To Sum It Up

NR, also known as nicotinamide riboside, is a precursor molecule that can raise our body’s NAD+ levels. NAD+ helps our cells work to create energy. Taking NR as a supplement can increase NAD+ in our bodies, which may have benefits like supporting our metabolism, giving us more energy, and keeping our cells healthy. More research is being done to understand all the ways NR can help us, but it’s an exciting supplement that could have positive effects on our overall health.


This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.


UNREVISED DRAFT

Secure Ordering   |   Free Shipping   |   Beat Quality   |   Best Prices

Along with providing information on whether Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) supplements might be right for you, this article also links to Fullscript where you can buy high quality supplements. Order online through Fullscript’s secure healthcare formulary to get the best prices and free shipping on professional-grade supplements.

There’s been growing interest around aging and how it connects to a molecule called NAD, which plays a key role in how the body makes energy. One compound that’s gotten attention is nicotinamide riboside (NR), which has been shown to help raise NAD levels. This article looks at how NAD works in the body and explores ways to support it through both food and NR supplements.

What Is NR?

NR, or nicotinamide riboside, is a form of vitamin B3 that the body can convert into NAD+—a molecule involved in making energy and supporting cell repair. NAD+ helps with many cellular functions, including how cells manage energy and respond to stress.

People often take NR as a supplement to help maintain NAD+ levels, especially as these levels tend to drop with age. Researchers are continuing to study how NR may affect metabolism and other aspects of health at the cellular level.

[PMC10240123]

What Are The Health Benefits of Nicotinamide Riboside?

Here are some of the notable health benefits associated with NR:

  • Boosts NAD+ Levels: NR is an efficient way to increase NAD+ levels in the body. NAD+ is essential for energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling, and its levels decline with age. [PMC5876407]
  • Supports Healthy Aging: By increasing NAD+ levels, NR may help counteract some aspects of aging at the cellular level. [PMC3616312] This includes improving mitochondrial function, protecting against cellular damage, and possibly extending lifespan. [PMC9571518]
  • Improves Metabolic Health: Some studies suggest that NR supplementation can improve metabolic markers such as energy metabolism in muscles, reduce insulin sensitivity, and lower blood sugar levels, which are beneficial for metabolic health. [PMC3616313] [PMC7398770]
  • Neuroprotection: NR may have neuroprotective effects, potentially supporting brain health by enhancing cognitive function, increasing brain NAD+ levels, and offering protection against neurodegenerative diseases. [PMC9370773]
  • Muscle Function: Increasing NAD+ levels through NR supplementation could improve muscle function and endurance, potentially countering age-related muscle decline. [PMC6702140]
  • Cardiovascular Health: There is emerging evidence that NR could support cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function, reducing oxidative stress, and lowering blood pressure in certain contexts. [PMC8463245 🐁 ]
  • May Reduce Cancer Risk: Preliminary research suggests that boosting NAD+ levels through NR supplementation could play a role in cancer prevention and complement cancer treatment by enhancing the efficacy of certain therapies and reducing side effects. [PMC10055624 🐀 ]

A Bit of Chemistry: How Nicotinamide Riboside Relates to NMN and NAD+

NAD+ is a molecule found in every cell that helps turn food into energy the body can use. It also supports processes like DNA repair and gene regulation. As people get older or go through stress, NAD+ levels can decline. This drop may affect how cells function and how much energy the body can produce.

The body makes NAD+ through several steps. One of these starts with nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of vitamin B3. Cells take in NR and convert it into a compound called NMN. NMN is then turned into NAD+ through the action of specific enzymes. This process helps keep NAD+ available to support essential cell functions.

Can You Raise NAD Levels Without Supplements?

The answer is yes, and it’s simple but not necessarily easy. Diet and exercise. Here is the research on how this age-old advice works to raise your NAD levels.

Calorie Restriction

Calorie restriction (CR) is a dietary intervention that involves reducing daily caloric intake by 20-40% without causing malnutrition. It has been shown to extend lifespan, improve health, and delay age-related diseases in various organisms, including yeast, worms, flies, rodents, and potentially humans. One of the mechanisms through which calorie restriction exerts its beneficial effects is by boosting NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) levels in cells.

NAD is a crucial coenzyme that plays a vital role in many cellular processes, including metabolism, energy production, and DNA repair. It is also a substrate for enzymes like sirtuins, which are involved in regulating cellular aging and maintaining cellular health. Higher NAD levels have been associated with improved cellular function, increased stress resistance, and delayed aging.

Calorie restriction boosts NAD levels through several mechanisms:

  • Enhanced NAD biosynthesis: Calorie restriction stimulates the expression of NAMPT (Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase), an enzyme involved in the salvage pathway of NAD biosynthesis. Increased NAMPT activity results in higher NAD production, contributing to higher cellular NAD levels.
  • Reduced NAD consumption: Calorie restriction reduces the activity of enzymes that consume NAD, like poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) and CD38. PARPs are involved in DNA repair and cellular stress response, while CD38 is a multifunctional enzyme associated with NAD degradation. By reducing their activity, CR conserves NAD levels in cells.
  • Shift in energy metabolism: CR promotes a shift from glucose metabolism to fatty acid oxidation, which favors the production of ketone bodies. This metabolic shift increases the NAD+/NADH ratio, thereby making more NAD+ available for cellular processes, including the activation of sirtuins.
  • Increased mitochondrial function: Calorie restriction enhances mitochondrial biogenesis and function, which can boost NAD+ levels. Improved mitochondrial function results in higher energy production, more efficient use of nutrients, and reduced oxidative stress, which together contribute to increased NAD+ levels.

In summary, calorie restriction boosts NAD levels through various mechanisms that involve enhancing NAD biosynthesis, reducing NAD consumption, shifting energy metabolism, and improving mitochondrial function. These changes promote cellular health and stress resistance, ultimately contributing to the lifespan-extending and health-promoting effects of calorie restriction.

Exercise

Exercise is another effective way to increase NAD levels in the body. Regular physical activity has numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function, enhanced muscle strength, and reduced risk of chronic diseases. Several mechanisms are involved in the increase of NAD levels during and after exercise:

  • Enhanced NAD biosynthesis: Exercise stimulates the expression of the enzyme NAMPT (Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase), which is involved in the NAD salvage pathway. This pathway recycles nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) into NAD, thereby increasing its production. Higher NAMPT expression results in higher cellular NAD levels.
  • Increased AMPK activation: Exercise leads to an increase in the cellular energy demand, which in turn results in the activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is a cellular energy sensor that helps maintain energy homeostasis by promoting catabolic processes and inhibiting anabolic processes. AMPK activation can upregulate NAD production by increasing the expression of NAMPT and promoting mitochondrial biogenesis.
  • Improved mitochondrial function: Exercise enhances mitochondrial biogenesis, function, and efficiency, leading to an increase in cellular NAD+ levels. Enhanced mitochondrial function promotes better nutrient utilization and reduces oxidative stress, which can contribute to increased NAD+ levels.
  • Shift in energy metabolism: Exercise promotes a shift in energy metabolism from glucose metabolism to fatty acid oxidation. This metabolic shift increases the NAD+/NADH ratio, making more NAD+ available for cellular processes, including sirtuin activation.
  • Sirtuin activation: Sirtuins are a family of NAD+-dependent enzymes that play a significant role in regulating cellular aging and maintaining cellular health. Exercise-induced increases in NAD+ levels promote sirtuin activation, which in turn contributes to improved cellular function, stress resistance, and mitochondrial biogenesis.

To summarize, exercise can increase NAD levels through various mechanisms, including enhanced NAD biosynthesis, increased AMPK activation, improved mitochondrial function, a shift in energy metabolism, and sirtuin activation. Regular physical activity not only boosts NAD levels but also promotes overall health and well-being.

Is NR helpful For Aging Muscles and Inflammation?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplements have been studied for their role in supporting muscle health and managing inflammation as people age. Research shows that NR may help increase certain molecules in muscle that are involved in energy production. While it does not directly improve how mitochondria function, it appears to support the energy supply that muscles rely on.

Some studies also found that NR may help lower levels of inflammatory markers in the blood. This suggests it could play a role in addressing low-grade inflammation that tends to rise with age or chronic conditions. Together, these effects point to NR as a possible tool for supporting strength and mobility in older adults.PMC6702140

NR (nicotinamide riboside) May Be More Effective For People Near Their Ideal Weight

NR is broken down in the body by an enzyme called CD38. People with higher body weight often have more CD38 activity. This may explain why NR hasn’t consistently raised NAD levels in studies involving people with a BMI over 30.

There is another option. Research shows that NMN, a related compound, can increase NAD levels even in people with higher BMI. For those in this group, NMN may be a more reliable way to support NAD. Visit our NMN page here.

[PMID: 29514064]

Is NR Safe?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is generally considered safe when taken in amounts commonly used in supplements. That said, research on its long-term use is still ongoing, so there’s more to learn about how it works over time.

It’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare provider before starting NR, especially during pregnancy, while nursing, or if you have health conditions or take medications. This helps make sure it’s a good fit for your situation.H

What Other Supplements Interact with NR?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a form of vitamin B3 that the body uses to make NAD+, a molecule important for energy and cell function. When taking NR as a supplement, it’s helpful to know that it may interact with other supplements. Some combinations may support how NR works, while others might interfere with it.

Some supplements may work well with nicotinamide riboside (NR), while others may interfere with how it works in the body. The following list of supplements may or may not support NR:

  • Supplements that may support NR
  • Resveratrol: Found in grapes, berries, and peanuts. It helps activate enzymes called sirtuins that rely on NAD+ to support cell function. Taking it with NR may help raise NAD+ levels while also supporting sirtuin activity.
  • Pterostilbene: A compound found in blueberries with a structure similar to resveratrol. It also supports sirtuin activity and may work well alongside NR.
  • Quercetin: Present in many fruits and vegetables, quercetin has antioxidant properties and has been shown to support NAD+ production. It may complement NR in maintaining cellular processes.
  • Supplements that may interfere with NR:
  • Nicotinic acid (niacin): Another form of vitamin B3. At high doses, it may compete with NR for the same pathways in the body, which could reduce how well NR works.
  • Nicotinamide: Also a form of vitamin B3, nicotinamide may block some of the enzymes that NR depends on. It may also reduce sirtuin activity, which could offset some of the effects of raising NAD+ levels with NR.

What Medications and Supplements Interact With NR?

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a type of vitamin B3 that the body uses to make NAD+, a molecule involved in energy production and other cellular functions. While NR is usually well tolerated, there isn’t much research yet on how it might interact with medications. Still, since NR affects NAD+ metabolism and is related to vitamin B3, certain medications could influence or be influenced by its use. Some possible interactions include:

  • Blood Pressure Medications: NR may reduce arterial stiffness and help lower systolic blood pressure. If you are already taking medication for blood pressure, it’s important to monitor your levels, as combining the two could lower blood pressure more than expected.[PMC9127073]
  • Anticonvulsants: Medications like valproic acid and carbamazepine may lower NAD+ levels. NR could help restore NAD+, but the combination might affect how the medication works. Always discuss with a healthcare provider before combining NR with these drugs.
  • Statins: Statins, used to lower cholesterol, may reduce NAD+ levels and contribute to muscle-related side effects. NR could help restore NAD+ in this case, but the interaction hasn’t been fully studied. It’s best to check with a healthcare provider before using both together.
  • Niacin or nicotinic acid: These forms of vitamin B3 may compete with NR in the body and reduce its effectiveness. If you’re taking niacin, talk with your provider before adding NR.

When you purchase linked products presented on this page, Supplement Sciences, LLC receives affiliate fees so that our dietitians can continue to create great content.

Thank you for your support!

Order NR Supplements


TruNiagen 500 mg NR

Help drive cellular energy production and promote cellular repair with TRU NIAGEN® PRO 500. This supplement delivers the highest dose available today of NIAGEN® nicotinamide riboside (NR).  With 500mg of NR in each capsule, it increases NAD+ by an estimated 80%.**

 Available only through licensed healthcare professionals, TRU NIAGEN® PRO 500:
• Significantly increases NAD+*
• Supports ongoing mitochondrial health*
• Increases cellular energy production*

 *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
**Based on the dose-dependent clinical effects of 100, 300, and 1000 mg/day Niagen®
Adults take 1 capsule daily or as recommended by your healthcare professional

Amount Per 1 Capsule Serving
NIAGEN® … 500mg (nicotinamide riboside chloride)


TruNiagen 300 mg NR

Tru Niagen® Pro 300 supports the body’s natural energy production mechanisms, helping to maintain long-term health by counteracting the cellular effects of aging. Its key ingredient, Niagen® nicotinamide riboside (NR), is a novel form of vitamin B3 clinically proven to safely increase NAD+ levels – and maintain those elevated levels with continued daily use*.  
Tru Niagen® PRO 300:
• Promotes youthful cellular metabolism*
• Boosts cells’ ability to make energy, with NAD*
• Helps maintain health, longer*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Adults take 1 capsule daily or as recommended by your healthcare professional.

Serving Size: 1 Vegetarian Capsule

Amount Per Serving
NIAGEN® … 300mg (nicotinamide riboside chloride)


Mito-NR™ – 300mg NR, 200 mg CoQ10

A uniquely formulated to support cellular energy production and healthy aging.* This formula contains clinically relevant amounts of Niagen®, a form of nicotinamide riboside chloride (NR), coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and geranylgeraniol (GG). NR is a variation of vitamin B3 (niacin) and is a building block to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ is found in every living cell and is essential to many important cellular processes, including energy production.

Suggested Use: 
Take 2 capsules per day with a meal or as directed by your health-care practitioner.

Serving Size: 2 Capsules

Amount Per Serving
Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride
 … 300mg
(Niagen®)
Coenzyme Q10 … 200mg
Trans-Geranylgeraniol … 50mg
(GG-Gold®)


To Sum It Up

NR, or nicotinamide riboside, is a form of vitamin B3 that the body can use to make NAD+. NAD+ plays a central role in how cells produce energy and carry out daily functions. Taking NR as a supplement can help support NAD+ levels, which may affect how the body manages energy and metabolism. Researchers are still studying all the ways NR works in the body, but it’s being looked at for its role in supporting cellular processes as we age.


This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.


About the Author

Stephanie Figon, MS, RDN, LD

Creator of Supplement Sciences and NutriScape.NET. As a dietitian since 1992, Steph has had experiences in consulting, 15 years in clinical, and has operated a private practice nutrition counseling office for since 2011. Log in to comment and save this article on your board or send your comments to reviews@supplement-sciences.com