Anti-Aging & Longevity
NR
Nicotinamide Riboside · Niagen · NAD+ precursor
What it is
NR is the other major NAD+ precursor sold over-the-counter. Two enzymatic steps to NAD+ (vs. NMN's one). Marketed as Niagen by ChromaDex, with the most extensive published human safety and efficacy data of any NAD+ supplement.
How it works
Cellular NRK enzymes convert NR → NMN → NAD+. Slightly slower pathway than NMN but well-validated. Some research suggests NR is more efficient at raising NAD+ in some tissues; NMN may be better in others. Both work.
Benefits
- Reliably raises NAD+ in human trials
- Improved mitochondrial function
- Cardiovascular markers (BP, arterial stiffness)
- Some cognitive support in older adults
- Recovery and exercise capacity
Timeline
- Week 2–4
- NAD+ levels rise (clinical trial measurements).
- Month 2–3
- Cumulative metabolic effects.
Dosing & titration
Standard dose300–1000 mg orally daily
Niagen branded300 mg/day (typical clinical-trial dose)
TimingAM with food
When to titrate upMost users do well at 300–500 mg. Higher doses don't show proportional benefit in trials.
Side effects & risks
- Generally very well tolerated (FDA GRAS designation)
- Rare: mild flushing, GI upset
Most studied of the NAD+ precursors. Niagen has 20+ peer-reviewed human trials.
Typical price
$30–$80/mo30-day supply.
Studies
- Martens CR et al. Chronic nicotinamide riboside supplementation is well-tolerated and elevates NAD+ in healthy middle-aged and older adults — Phase 1 human trial. PubMedNature Communications, 2018
- Search PubMed for nicotinamide riboside clinical — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.