How to Prepare for Your First NAD+ IV Therapy Session

If you’re curious about NAD+ IV therapy and ready for your first appointment, you may be wondering what to expect. Knowing how to prepare can help your session go smoothly and allow you to feel more comfortable from start to finish. Taking time to prepare NAD+ IV therapy properly can also help you minimize side effects and get the most from your session. Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting ready.

What to eat or avoid before your session

A light, balanced meal about an hour before your infusion is ideal. Think lean protein, fruit, or whole grains—foods that won’t weigh you down but will keep your blood sugar steady. Staying hydrated is also important, so drink water throughout the day.
Try to avoid:

Heavy, greasy meals that may upset your stomach
Excess caffeine, which can make you jittery or dehydrated
Alcohol, which may interfere with hydration and recovery

When you prepare NAD+ IV therapy by eating the right foods, you’ll set your body up for a smoother infusion experience.

What to bring and wear

Comfort is key. Wear loose, breathable clothing that allows easy access to your arms. Many people bring:

A sweater or blanket (infusion rooms can feel cool)
A book, tablet, or headphones to pass the time
A water bottle to sip during and after the drip

It’s smart to prepare NAD+ IV therapy by packing small comfort items that make the long session more relaxing.

What to expect during infusion

Your provider will place an IV line in your arm or hand and start the NAD+ infusion slowly. Because NAD+ can sometimes cause sensations like flushing, pressure in the chest, or mild nausea, the drip rate may be adjusted to keep you comfortable.
Most patients describe the experience as unusual at first but very manageable once they settle in.

How long does it take?

NAD+ drips aren’t quick—plan on at least 2–4 hours for your first session. This is because NAD+ must be infused slowly to avoid discomfort. Some providers recommend starting slower in early sessions, then gradually shortening infusion time once your body adjusts.

Possible side effects and how to manage them

While generally safe, NAD+ IV therapy can cause temporary side effects:

Flushing or warmth: Usually eases if the drip rate is slowed.
Mild nausea or tightness: Deep breathing and pausing the infusion can help.
Fatigue afterward: Often resolves with hydration and rest.

Always let your provider know right away if you feel uncomfortable—they can make adjustments on the spot.

Should you plan to rest after?

Yes. Even if you feel energized, it’s best to keep the rest of your day light. Avoid scheduling intense exercise or back-to-back commitments. Many people report feeling tired after their first session, while others feel a boost in energy. Give yourself space to listen to your body.

Questions to ask your provider before beginning

Before starting therapy, consider asking:

How many sessions do you recommend for my goals?
How should I prepare based on my medical history?
What side effects should I look out for?
How will I know if it’s working?
Do you offer membership or package options to make treatment more affordable?

Final Thoughts

NAD+ is one of the most important molecules in your body—fueling energy, protecting cells, and supporting healthy aging. With levels naturally declining over time, NAD+ IV therapy offers a way to restore balance and resilience.

At Heally, we connect patients with licensed clinicians who can guide you through NAD+ therapy safely and effectively. Schedule a free consultation today to explore whether NAD+ IV therapy is right for you.

Sources

Nature Communications: Chronic nicotinamide riboside supplementation is well-tolerated and elevates NAD+ in healthy middle-aged and older adults
Journal of Neuroinflammation: NAD+ improves cognitive function and reduces neuroinflammation by ameliorating mitochondrial damage and decreasing ROS production in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion models through Sirt1/PGC-1α pathway
Pubmed Central: NAD+ in DNA repair and mitochondrial maintenance
International Journal of Molecular Sciences: The Central Role of the NAD+ Molecule in the Development of Aging and the Prevention of Chronic Age-Related Diseases: Strategies for NAD+ Modulation
Frontiers: The effects of NAD+ precursor (nicotinic acid and nicotinamide) supplementation on weight loss and related hormones: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of randomized controlled trials
ScienceDirect ELSEVIER: Prophylactic nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) mitigates CSDS-induced depressive-like behaviors in mice via preserving of ATP level in the mPFC
MDPI: Cross-Sectional Associations between Dietary Daily Nicotinamide Intake and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer Survivors, 2 to 10 Years Post-Diagnosis
Pubmed Central: The Role of Kynurenine Pathway and NAD+ Metabolism in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
WedMD: NAD Therapy for Addiction: What to Know
Pubmed Central: Impact of Boosting NAD on Immune Function: Results From NR Preclinical Studies
American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism: Evaluation of safety and effectiveness of NAD in different clinical conditions: a systematic review

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Information about prescriptions and therapies is provided for general understanding and may not apply to individual situations. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about testing, treatment, or lifestyle changes that could affect your health.

Important Note

FDA-approved medications and diagnostic tools discussed in this article have specific indications, dosing, and monitoring requirements. Off-label uses or unregulated supplements may carry additional safety, quality, and effectiveness risks. Never start, stop, or change any medical regimen without guidance from a licensed clinician who can consider your full medical history and current health status.