Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
NAD+ precursor. Cellular energy support. Longevity research.
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a clinically studied form of vitamin B3 and a precursor to NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)—a foundational coenzyme involved in cellular energy production, metabolic regulation, and cellular repair.
Primary Topics:
- How NR supports NAD+ biology
- How NR compares to other NAD+ precursors
- How NR fits into a broader longevity framework
What Is Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)?
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B3 found in trace amounts in foods such as milk and yeast. In the body, NR is converted into NAD+ through the NAD+ salvage pathway, making it one of the most extensively studied NAD+ precursors in humans.
NAD+ plays a central role in cellular energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and cellular repair pathways. Because NAD+ levels naturally decline with age and chronic stress, NR has been widely researched as one approach to supporting NAD+ availability.
How NR Works (Mechanism of Action)
1. Precursor to NAD+ via the Salvage Pathway
NR is absorbed and converted into NAD+ through a series of enzymatic steps known as the NAD+ salvage pathway. This pathway helps replenish NAD+ pools required for metabolic and cellular processes.
2. Supports Mitochondrial Energy Production
NAD+ is essential for redox reactions that drive ATP production inside mitochondria. By supporting NAD+ availability, NR indirectly supports cellular energy production.
3. Supports Cellular Repair & Stress Response Pathways
NAD+ is required by regulatory enzymes such as:
- Sirtuins – involved in metabolic regulation and cellular stress adaptation
- PARPs – involved in DNA repair signaling
Through its role as a precursor, NR supports the biological systems that depend on adequate NAD+ levels.
Clinically Studied Dosage Ranges
NR has been evaluated in multiple human clinical trials focused on NAD+ metabolism and safety.
Commonly Studied Human Ranges
- NR: ~100–1,000 mg per day
Human studies consistently demonstrate increases in NAD+ or NAD+-related metabolites following NR supplementation, with generally favorable tolerability profiles.
Potential Benefits Studied for NR
Supports NAD+ Levels in Humans
Clinical studies show NR supplementation increases NAD+ and related metabolites in blood, supporting the availability of this critical coenzyme.
Supports Cellular Energy & Metabolism
Through its role in NAD+ synthesis, NR supports mitochondrial function and energy metabolism rather than acting as a stimulant.
Supports Metabolic & Cellular Resilience
NAD+-dependent pathways influence metabolic efficiency, stress response signaling, and cellular maintenance—areas where NR has been widely studied.
Studied in Healthy Aging Research
NR is frequently examined in research exploring normal age-related changes in NAD+ biology and cellular function.
Safety Profile
Human clinical research suggests NR is generally well tolerated when used within studied dosage ranges.
Reported side effects (typically mild and uncommon) may include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Nausea
- Headache
Unlike some other vitamin B3 forms, NR does not typically cause flushing.
Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding
- Managing a medical condition
- Taking prescription medications
How Synchronicity Health Approaches NAD+ Support
Rather than offering NR as a standalone product, Synchronicity Health focuses on delivery methods and formulations designed to support NAD+ biology more directly.
Our approach emphasizes:
- Thoughtful delivery strategies
- Systems-based longevity support
- Education around NAD+, NMN, and related pathways
This allows us to design formulations that align with real-world absorption, consistency, and long-term resilience rather than relying on a single precursor.
Related Ingredients & Pathways
- NAD+ – the active coenzyme itself
- NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) – a closely related NAD+ precursor
- Mitochondrial & metabolic cofactors – support downstream energy pathways
FDA disclaimer
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.
FAQ
What does nicotinamide riboside (NR) do in the body?
Nicotinamide riboside is a precursor to NAD+, a coenzyme required for cellular energy production, metabolism, and DNA repair. After ingestion, NR is converted into NAD+ through the body’s salvage pathway, helping support cellular systems that rely on adequate NAD+ availability.
How does NR increase NAD+ levels?
NR is absorbed and metabolized into NAD+ via enzymatic steps in the NAD+ salvage pathway. Human clinical studies show that NR supplementation increases NAD+ or NAD+-related metabolites in blood, supporting the coenzyme pools used in energy metabolism and cellular maintenance.
Is NR better than NMN?
NR and NMN are both NAD+ precursors, but they enter the NAD+ pathway at different points. NMN is one step closer to NAD+ biochemically, while NR requires conversion into NMN before becoming NAD+. Research suggests both can increase NAD+ metabolites, and effectiveness may depend on delivery method and individual response.
Why doesn’t Synchronicity Health sell NR?
Synchronicity Health prioritizes ingredients and delivery strategies we believe most effectively support NAD+ biology in real-world use. While Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is well studied, we believe NMN is a more direct and efficient precursor to NAD+, entering the pathway one step closer biochemically. For that reason, our formulations focus on NMN and other system-level strategies designed to support NAD+ availability, absorption, and downstream cellular function rather than offering NR as a standalone product.
How long does NR take to work?
Human studies show increases in NAD+ metabolites within weeks of consistent NR use. However, changes related to cellular energy, metabolism, or resilience are typically associated with longer-term, consistent support rather than immediate effects.
Is NR safe for daily use?
Clinical research suggests NR is generally well tolerated when used within studied dosage ranges. Reported side effects are usually mild, such as digestive discomfort or headache. As with any supplement, individuals with medical conditions or those taking medications should consult a healthcare professional.
How is NR different from niacin or nicotinamide?
NR is a distinct form of vitamin B3 that supports NAD+ production without the flushing commonly associated with niacin. Compared to nicotinamide, NR follows a more efficient pathway to NAD+ and is generally better tolerated at doses used in clinical research.
Who might consider learning about NR?
NR is commonly researched by individuals interested in cellular energy, metabolic health, and healthy aging. Even when not used directly, understanding NR helps clarify how the broader NAD+ system works and why different strategies, such as NMN or direct NAD+ support, may be chosen.