Nootropic profile
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
A form of vitamin B3 that efficiently raises NAD+ levels to support neuronal energy production, DNA repair, and neuroprotection - the first NAD+ precursor to gain widespread clinical validation.
Best for
Educational only: this is not medical advice. Always check with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.
What is Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)?
Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a form of vitamin B3 and a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) that was first identified as a NAD+ precursor by Dr Charles Brenner at Dartmouth College in 2004.
What it does for you
Community and editorial ratings, out of 5:
How to take it
- Standard dosage: 300-1,000 mg per day
- Clinical trial dosage: Most human studies have used 250-1,000 mg daily
- Timing: Take in the morning to align with circadian NAD+ rhythms
- With or without food: NR is well absorbed either way, though taking with food may reduce mild gastrointestinal effects
- Onset: NAD+ elevation is measurable within one week. Subjective energy improvements may be noticed within 1-2 weeks. Neuroprotective benefits are long-term
Watch out for
- Well tolerated: Generally safe at doses up to 2,000 mg/day in clinical studies
- Mild side effects: Occasional nausea, headache, fatigue, or diarrhoea, typically at higher doses
- Flushing: Unlike niacin, NR does not cause flushing
- Cancer consideration: Same theoretical concern as NMN regarding NAD+ and rapidly dividing cells. Consult an oncologist if you have active cancer
- Quality: Niagen (ChromaDex) is the most studied branded form with the most clinical data. Generic NR products vary in quality
The science, if you're curious.
- Converted to NMN by nicotinamide riboside kinase, then to NAD+ by NMNAT - a two-step pathway to NAD+ replenishment
- Elevated NAD+ activates SIRT1 and SIRT3, supporting mitochondrial biogenesis, DNA repair, and anti-inflammatory gene expression
- Restores mitochondrial membrane potential and function in ageing cells, directly improving neuronal energy capacity
- SIRT2 activation by NAD+ supports myelination and axonal integrity, protecting nerve signal transmission
Where to find it
- Niagen (branded NR): The patented form used in most clinical trials, licensed to multiple supplement brands (Tru Niagen, Life Extension, Thorne)
- Capsules: Available in 100-300 mg capsules from longevity and health supplement retailers
- Food sources: Trace amounts found in milk, yeast, and beer, but far below supplemental doses
The research
Frequently asked
A form of vitamin B3 that efficiently raises NAD+ levels to support neuronal energy production, DNA repair, and neuroprotection - the first NAD+ precursor to gain widespread clinical validation.
The main benefits people report from Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) are: Cognitive Enhancement, Energy, Focus, Longevity, Memory, Mood.
Standard dosage: 300-1,000 mg per dayClinical trial dosage: Most human studies have used 250-1,000 mg dailyTiming: Take in the morning to align with circadian NAD+ rhythmsWith or without food: NR is well absorbed either way, though taking with food may reduce mild gastrointestinal effectsOnset: NAD+...
Well tolerated: Generally safe at doses up to 2,000 mg/day in clinical studiesMild side effects: Occasional nausea, headache, fatigue, or diarrhoea, typically at higher dosesFlushing: Unlike niacin, NR does not cause flushingCancer consideration: Same theoretical concern as NMN regarding NAD+ and ra...
Converted to NMN by nicotinamide riboside kinase, then to NAD+ by NMNAT - a two-step pathway to NAD+ replenishmentElevated NAD+ activates SIRT1 and SIRT3, supporting mitochondrial biogenesis, DNA repair, and anti-inflammatory gene expressionRestores mitochondrial membrane potential and function in a...
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