Alternative Medicine
The following information is specific for alternative and complementary medicine.
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Also indexed as:
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide
Nicotinamide adenine
dinucleotide (NADH) is the active coenzyme form of vitamin
B3. It plays an essential role in
the energy production of every human cell.
Where is it found?
NADH is found in the muscle tissue of fish and poultry and cattle, as well as in food products made with yeast. However, it is not known whether the NADH from these sources can be efficiently absorbed or utilized by the body. It is also available as a nutritional supplement.
NADH has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Rating | Health Concerns |
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Chronic fatigue syndrome
Parkinson's disease
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Alzheimer's disease
Depression
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 Reliable and relatively
consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory,
insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health
benefit.
An herb is primarily
supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or
minimal health benefit.
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Who is likely to be deficient?
NADH deficiency is known to occur only in the presence of vitamin B3 deficiency, which is rare in Western society except in some alcoholics.
Which form of NADH is best?
NADH appears to be a chemically unstable molecule that decomposes rapidly. For this reason, techniques have been developed to stabilize the NADH sold in tablet form. At the present time, it is not known which commercially available NADH products are most effective.
How much is usually taken?
Researchers have used 10 mg per day, taken with water only, on an empty stomach.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Clinical studies of NADH using oral or intravenous administration have reported no side effects with up to one year or more of use. Longer-term use has not been evaluated.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with NADH.
Last Review: 09-07-2006 
Copyright © 2007 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved.
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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires August 2007.
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