NAD+ liposomal with resveratrol combines nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) precursors with the polyphenolic compound resveratrol in a liposomal delivery system. Marketed primarily within the wellness and anti-ageing sector, these food supplements claim to support cellular energy metabolism and healthy ageing. Whilst preclinical research suggests potential benefits, robust clinical evidence demonstrating meaningful health outcomes in humans remains limited. In Great Britain, only certain NAD+ precursors such as nicotinamide riboside chloride are authorised as novel foods, whilst nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is not currently permitted in food supplements. These products are not medicines and are not available on NHS prescription.

What Is NAD+ Liposomal with Resveratrol?

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a coenzyme found in all living cells, playing a crucial role in cellular energy metabolism and DNA repair. As we age, NAD+ levels naturally decline, which has led to interest in supplementation strategies. Liposomal formulations encapsulate NAD+ precursors (such as nicotinamide riboside) within lipid vesicles, theoretically enhancing absorption and bioavailability compared to standard oral supplements.

It's important to note that in Great Britain, nicotinamide riboside chloride (NR chloride) is an authorised novel food with specific conditions of use, including maximum daily intake limits. However, nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is currently not authorised as a novel food in Great Britain and should not be marketed or sold in food supplements.

Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound found naturally in grapes, berries, and red wine. It has been studied for its potential antioxidant properties and its ability to activate sirtuins—a family of proteins involved in cellular regulation and longevity pathways. The combination of NAD+ precursors with resveratrol is marketed on the premise that resveratrol may enhance sirtuin activity, which in turn requires NAD+ as a cofactor. However, this theoretical synergy lacks robust clinical evidence demonstrating meaningful health outcomes in humans.

The term "liposomal" refers to the delivery technology rather than the active ingredients themselves. Liposomes are microscopic spherical vesicles composed of phospholipid bilayers that can protect sensitive compounds from degradation in the digestive tract. While liposomal formulations claim to improve absorption, robust human pharmacokinetic evidence demonstrating superior bioavailability remains limited.

These combination supplements are typically marketed as food supplements rather than medicines in the UK, positioning them within the wellness and anti-ageing sector. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and consumers should approach marketing claims with appropriate scrutiny.

Potential Benefits and Clinical Evidence

Proponents of NAD+ and resveratrol supplementation cite various potential benefits, primarily centred on cellular energy metabolism, healthy ageing, and cardiovascular health. Preclinical studies in animal models have demonstrated that boosting NAD+ levels may support mitochondrial function, enhance DNA repair mechanisms, and potentially extend lifespan in certain organisms. Similarly, resveratrol has shown promise in laboratory settings for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

However, translating these findings to human health outcomes remains challenging. Clinical trials examining NAD+ precursors such as nicotinamide riboside have shown that oral supplementation can increase blood NAD+ levels, but these biochemical changes have not been conclusively linked to meaningful clinical benefits. Small-scale human studies have suggested potential improvements in markers of metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular function, but larger, well-designed randomised controlled trials are needed to confirm these effects.

Regarding resveratrol specifically, human studies have produced mixed results. Whilst some research indicates potential benefits for blood pressure, lipid profiles, and inflammatory markers, other trials have failed to demonstrate significant clinical effects. The bioavailability of resveratrol is notably poor, with rapid metabolism limiting its systemic exposure—a factor that liposomal formulations aim to address, though robust human data supporting this advantage is lacking.

There is currently no official link established by regulatory bodies such as NICE or the MHRA between NAD+ liposomal with resveratrol supplementation and the prevention or treatment of specific diseases. The GB Nutrition and Health Claims Register (based on retained EU Regulation No 1924/2006) does not include authorised health claims related to anti-ageing or longevity for these compounds. Individuals considering these supplements should maintain realistic expectations and recognise that current evidence does not support their use as a substitute for established medical treatments or healthy lifestyle practices including balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep.

Dosage, Safety and Side Effects

Dosage considerations: Consumers should strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions and adhere to the conditions of use for authorised novel food ingredients. For nicotinamide riboside chloride, there are specific maximum daily intake limits established by regulatory authorities. Avoid exceeding recommended doses without professional guidance, and be aware that products containing NMN are not authorised for sale in Great Britain.

Regarding safety, both NAD+ precursors and resveratrol are generally considered well-tolerated at authorised doses. Common side effects reported with NAD+ precursors include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, bloating, or diarrhoea, particularly at higher doses. Resveratrol may occasionally cause digestive upset, headache, or dizziness. These effects are typically mild and transient.

However, several important safety considerations warrant attention. Resveratrol may have antiplatelet effects and could theoretically increase bleeding risk, particularly in individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel. Patients on these medications should consult their GP or pharmacist before commencing supplementation. If taking resveratrol, consider stopping 1-2 weeks before surgery or invasive dental procedures after consulting your clinician. Additionally, resveratrol may interact with cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially affecting the metabolism of various medications.

High intakes of vitamin B3 derivatives (including some NAD+ precursors) can, rarely, affect liver enzymes. Seek medical advice if you develop jaundice, dark urine, or severe fatigue.

These supplements are not recommended for children or adolescents under 18 due to insufficient safety data. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid these supplements. Individuals with existing medical conditions, particularly liver or kidney disease, should seek medical advice before use.

When to contact your GP: Seek medical advice if you experience persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, unusual bleeding or bruising, allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), or any unexpected symptoms after starting supplementation. Always inform healthcare professionals about all supplements you are taking, as this information is essential for safe prescribing and monitoring of conventional medications.

If you suspect you've experienced a side effect from these supplements, you can report it through the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme (yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk).

Availability and Regulation in the UK

NAD+ liposomal with resveratrol products are widely available in the UK through various channels including online retailers, health food shops, and some pharmacies. They are classified as food supplements rather than medicines, which has important regulatory implications. Unlike medicines, food supplements do not require pre-market authorisation from the MHRA for safety and efficacy, though they must comply with food safety legislation.

It's important to note that nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is not authorised as a novel food in Great Britain and should not be marketed or sold in food supplements. Nicotinamide riboside chloride is authorised as a novel food with specific conditions of use. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing these regulations.

The regulatory framework governing these products in the UK includes the Food Supplements (England) Regulations 2003 and retained EU legislation. Manufacturers must ensure their products are safe, accurately labelled, and do not make unauthorised medicinal claims. The MHRA and local authority trading standards teams enforce these regulations. If products make medicinal claims, they may be considered borderline products and regulated as unlicensed medicines under the Human Medicines Regulations 2012.

Quality and standardisation can vary significantly between products. Unlike pharmaceutical-grade medicines, food supplements are not subject to Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) requirements to the same degree. Consumers should look for products from reputable manufacturers, ideally those certified by independent testing organisations such as BRCGS or ISO-accredited laboratories. Third-party testing for purity, potency, and contaminants provides additional assurance but is not mandatory.

Marketing claims for these products must comply with the GB Nutrition and Health Claims Register. Claims suggesting they can treat, prevent, or cure diseases would classify them as unlicensed medicines. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) and Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) provide guidance on compliant advertising for food supplements, but enforcement can be challenging, particularly online.

NHS availability: These supplements are not available on NHS prescription, as there is insufficient evidence to support their use within clinical guidelines. Patients interested in these products will need to purchase them privately. Before doing so, it is advisable to discuss supplementation with a GP or registered pharmacist, particularly if you have existing health conditions or take regular medications. Healthcare professionals can provide individualised advice and help you make informed decisions based on your specific circumstances and the current evidence base.

Frequently Asked Questions