Side Effects of NADH Supplement

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, commonly referred to as NADH, is the active form of vitamin B-3. It is normally produced in your body. While natural forms of NADH are present in the muscles of cattle, poultry and fish, your body may not be able to make use of this form of NADH. If you need to increase the levels of NADH in your body, your doctor may recommend treatment with a supplemental form of NADH. Talk with your medical provider about the safety and beneficial aspects of treatment before beginning treatment with NADH supplements.

Hand holding spoon with supplements. (Image: itan1409e/iStock/Getty Images)

Safety Concerns

As of December 2010, there are no known safety concerns associated with NADH supplement treatment, according to the University of Michigan Health System. The long-term safety of this supplement has yet to be fully evaluated in humans. Consult your physician immediately if you develop any unusual health problems while receiving treatment with NADH supplements.

Benefits

NADH is a natural health supplement and has a variety of purported health benefits. Though additional research in humans is necessary, the most current research suggests NADH supplementation may be beneficial in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and chronic fatigue syndrome, SupplementNews.org reports. This supplement may help reduce fatigue by increasing the amount of energy available in the body. Additionally, NADH supplements may improve nerve signaling in the brain, which may diminish symptoms associated with Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease; however, the exact way in which these supplements work in the body is not currently known.

Proper Dosing

The amount of NADH you should take depends upon a variety of factors, including your current health status and age. Typically, the recommended dose of this supplement is 10 mg per day, which you should take on an empty stomach with a full glass of water, the University of Michigan Health System explains. Consult your medical provider before taking NADH to ensure you are receiving the proper amount of this supplement.

Contraindications

The safety and efficacy of NADH supplements have not been evaluated in pregnant or breast-feeding women. As such, this population of women should avoid using NADH supplements unless otherwise instructed by a medical professional.