Abstract

Nicotinamide riboside (NR), a precursor to Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+), has emerged as a popular anti-aging supplement due to its role in cellular energy metabolism and sirtuin activation. Preclinical studies in model organisms demonstrate that NR supplementation can counteract agerelated NAD+ decline, improving mitochondrial function, reducing inflammation and extending lifespan. However, human clinical trials reveal only modest benefits-such as enhanced muscle endurance and mild cardiometabolic improvements-with limitations including short study durations, small sample sizes and potential industry bias. While NR appears safe at doses up to 2,000mg/day, concerns persist about its long-term effects and overstated commercial claims. This review critically evaluates the translational gap between animal data and human outcomes, emphasizing the need for rigorous, independent research to validate NR’s anti-aging potential.

Keywords:Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) supplementation; NAD+ Decline and aging; NR clinical trials evidence; Anti-aging supplements hype vs. science; NAD+ Boosters and longevity