Evidence supporting the use of: NADH
For the body system: Specific Neurotransmitters
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
NADH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide + hydrogen) is a coenzyme involved in cellular energy production and redox reactions. There is some scientific interest in the use of NADH for neurological health and its potential role in supporting neurotransmitter systems, particularly in conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. NADH participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin by acting as a cofactor in enzymatic reactions, and it is essential for mitochondrial ATP production, which is critical for neuronal function.
Some small clinical trials and mechanistic studies have explored oral NADH supplementation, reporting modest benefits on cognitive function and fatigue, especially in neurodegenerative or fatigue-related disorders. However, robust evidence demonstrating significant or consistent effects on specific neurotransmitter systems in healthy populations is lacking. Most studies are limited by small sample sizes, short duration, and methodological issues. Systematic reviews generally conclude that while NADH is biologically plausible for supporting neurotransmitter metabolism and brain energy, current clinical evidence is preliminary and inconclusive. Thus, NADH's use for neurotransmitter support is partially scientifically justified, but the strength of evidence remains low and further high-quality research is needed.
Other ingredients that support Specific Neurotransmitters
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)acetyl l-carnitine
caffeine
choline
citicoline
cowage seed
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
glycerophosphocholine (GPC)
huperzine A
l-phenylalanine
l-taurine
l-theanine
l-tryptophan
l-tyrosine
melatonin
Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
phosphatidylserine
phytocannabinoids
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
SAMe (s-adenosyl-l-methionine disulfate p-toluensulfate)
sceletium
skullcap
terpene lactones
St. John's Wort
DMPX
5-Methoxytryptamine
Alpha glyceryl
Agmatine
Adrafinil
Acetylcholine
Adrenaline
Alpha lactalbumin
Aniracetam
Beta Phenethylalamine
Biopterin
Bacopin
Brahmi
Bacopa
Catecholamine
Cytisine
Chocolate
D-Aspartic Acid
Dopamine
Deanol
Decarboxylase
Phenylethylamine (PEA)
Other body systems supported by NADH
BrainHeart
Immune System
Mitochondria
Muscles
Nerves
Specific Neurotransmitters