Peptide Comparison
NAD+vsEpithalon
Your cells' master energy currency and anti-aging powerhouse—NAD+ keeps your mitochondria humming, activates longevity genes called sirtuins, and helps repair DNA damage that accumulates as you get older.
A tiny but mighty four-amino-acid peptide that activates your body's telomerase enzyme—essentially helping your cells hit the 'reset' button on aging by protecting and lengthening the protective caps on your chromosomes.
At a Glance
Quick
comparison
Dose Range
NAD+
250–500 mg
Epithalon
5–10 mg
Frequency
NAD+
Once daily
Epithalon
Once daily
Administration
NAD+
Oral (NR or NMN precursors)
Epithalon
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
NAD+
Ongoing/indefinite
Epithalon
4-6 weeks
Onset Speed
NAD+
Moderate (1-2 weeks)
Epithalon
Gradual (3-4 weeks)
Evidence Level
NAD+
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
Epithalon
Limited human trials
Efficacy
Benefit
ratings
Cellular Energy
Longevity Support
Brain Function
Telomere Protection
Sleep Quality
Cellular Longevity
Technical Data
Compound
specifications
NAD+
Molecular Formula
C21H27N7O14P2
Molecular Weight
663.4 g/mol
Half-Life
1-2 hours (plasma); tissue levels persist longer
Bioavailability
Variable by route: ~30% oral (precursors), ~100% IV
CAS Number
53-84-9
Epithalon
Molecular Formula
C14H22N4O9
Molecular Weight
390.35 g/mol
Half-Life
2-4 hours (estimated)
Bioavailability
High when injected subcutaneously
CAS Number
307297-39-8
Protocols
Dosing
tiers
NAD+
Epithalon
Applications
Best
suited for
NAD+
Healthy Aging Enthusiasts
NAD+ levels naturally decline 50% or more by middle age, and this drop is linked to many signs of aging. Boosting NAD+ helps maintain the cellular repair and energy production that keeps you feeling vital. It's like refilling your cells' gas tanks.
Brain Health Seekers
Your brain is an energy hog—it uses about 20% of your body's energy despite being only 2% of your weight. NAD+ supports the mitochondria that power your neurons, and research shows promising effects on cognitive function and neuroprotection.
Athletes and Active People
Every time you exercise, your muscles burn through NAD+ to produce energy. Boosting your NAD+ levels may help with recovery, endurance, and maintaining muscle function as you age. Many athletes notice improved workout recovery.
Metabolic Support Seekers
NAD+ plays a central role in how your body processes fats and sugars. Research shows it may help support healthy blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support weight management efforts when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Epithalon
Longevity Enthusiasts
If you're serious about healthy aging and want to support your cells at the deepest level, Epithalon targets one of the fundamental mechanisms of cellular aging—telomere shortening. It's like giving your cells' protective caps a little extra reinforcement.
Sleep Quality Seekers
Epithalon helps regulate melatonin production by supporting your pineal gland. Many users report better sleep quality and more consistent sleep-wake cycles, especially those who've noticed their sleep getting worse with age.
Those Concerned About Oxidative Stress
Beyond its telomere effects, Epithalon acts as an antioxidant. If you're exposed to environmental stressors, have a demanding lifestyle, or simply want extra cellular protection, this peptide offers multiple mechanisms of support.
Immune System Support (Age-Related)
As we age, our immune system naturally weakens—a process called immunosenescence. Research suggests Epithalon may help maintain immune function by supporting the thymus and immune cell health, potentially keeping your defenses stronger as you age.
Safety Profile
Side
effects
NAD+
Common
- Flushing and warmth
- Digestive upset
- Mild headache
Uncommon
- Increased energy or restlessness
- Vivid dreams
Serious
- Chest tightness during IV infusion
Epithalon
Common
- Injection site redness
- Mild headache
- Temporary fatigue
Uncommon
- Vivid dreams
- Sleep pattern changes
Serious
- Allergic reaction
Research Status
Safety
& evidence
NAD+
Evidence Level
Moderate human trials (Phase 1-2)
FDA Status
Not FDA approved
Safety Overview
NAD+ precursors like NR and NMN have demonstrated excellent safety profiles in human trials, with doses up to 2000-3000 mg daily being well-tolerated. The most common side effects are mild flushing (similar to niacin) and temporary digestive upset. IV NAD+ is more intense but also appears safe when administered properly by healthcare professionals.
Contraindications
- xActive cancer (theoretical concern about fueling cancer cell metabolism)
- xPregnancy or breastfeeding
- xKnown allergy to niacin or B vitamins
- xSevere liver disease
Epithalon
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
FDA Status
Research compound
Safety Overview
Epithalon has shown a favorable safety profile across decades of research, primarily conducted in Russia. Studies spanning up to 15 years of follow-up have reported no severe adverse events in older adults using Epithalon or its natural precursor Epithalamin. The peptide appears well-tolerated with minimal side effects, mostly limited to mild injection site reactions. However, large-scale clinical trials outside of Russia are still needed.
Contraindications
- xPregnancy or planning to become pregnant
- xCurrently breastfeeding
- xActive cancer or history of cancer
- xKnown allergy to peptide components
- xChildren and adolescents
Decision Guide
Which is
right for you?
Choose NAD+ if...
- Cellular energy and vitality
- Healthy aging and longevity
- Brain health and cognitive support
- Metabolic optimization
Choose Epithalon if...
- Longevity and healthy aging
- Cellular rejuvenation
- Sleep quality improvement
- Antioxidant support