Evigrade

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)

Dietary supplements, NAD+ precursors (local classification)

ATC code: A11JA-NMN

Brand names: ChromaDex Tru Niagen NMN, Elysium Basis NMN, Renue by Science NMN, Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

Updated · Methodology

Marketing claims without evidence base

The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.

D

Anti-aging and longevity

Not recommended

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a NAD+ precursor sold as a supplement and promoted for slowing aging and extending lifespan. Human studies have not shown convincing benefit for this use, and there is no evidence base for anti-aging or longevity. The substance itself is well tolerated in this role. What actually affects biological aging is the ordinary stuff: not smoking, regular physical activity, decent sleep, and keeping blood pressure, glucose and lipids in check.

D

Athletic endurance

Not recommended

NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) is a NAD+ precursor sold as a supplement for energy, recovery, and athletic endurance. Convincing human evidence that NMN improves endurance or performance is lacking: the trials are small and inconsistent. Endurance responds more reliably to consistent aerobic training, enough sleep, and solid nutrition, and NMN does not replace any of that.

D

Chronic fatigue

Not recommended

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a NAD+ precursor marketed as an anti-fatigue and energy supplement. For chronic fatigue it has not shown convincing benefit: there is no solid evidence for this use. What actually helps is finding and treating the cause of the tiredness (sleep, iron and vitamin D deficiencies, thyroid problems, depression), and chronic fatigue syndrome is managed with paced activity and supportive care under medical supervision. Do not take NMN instead of an approach with proven benefit, so you don't miss the treatment you need.

ICD-10: R53 · ICD-11: MG22

D

Memory and concentration enhancement

Not recommended

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor of the coenzyme NAD+, sold as a supplement for memory, focus and "brain rejuvenation". For memory and concentration the benefit has not been proven: there is no good evidence base for this use. Taken this way, NMN is well tolerated and carries no serious risk. What actually helps cognition is sleep, physical activity and treating the underlying cause of the complaints, whether vitamin B12 deficiency, depression or a sleep disorder

How to read tiers A–F
  • AStrong evidence – first or second line in international guidelines
  • BRecommended in selected cases
  • CStudy data contradict each other
  • DBenefit not proven, no documented harm
  • FDocumented harm, or risk without benefit

Mechanism of action

NMN is a nucleotide that serves as a direct precursor of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). NAD+ declines with age, a decline linked to mitochondrial and sirtuin ageing. In mouse models, oral NMN raises tissue NAD+ and improves surrogate markers (muscle function, glucose metabolism). In humans, randomised trials with longevity endpoints do not exist.

Safety

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Age under 18
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Active malignancy (theoretical risk of tumour NAD metabolism stimulation)

Serious adverse effects

  • Long-term safety data are unavailable

Common adverse effects

  • Nausea
  • GI discomfort
  • Facial flushing
  • Headache

Pregnancy: can you take Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)?

Use in pregnancy has not been studied; supplement is not recommended.

Breastfeeding: can you take Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)?

Use during breastfeeding has not been studied; supplement is not recommended.

Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.

Practical notes

Russian practice note

NMN in Russia is sold as a dietary supplement and through foreign online retailers. There is no medicinal product regulatory status. Marketing doses are 250–1000 mg/day, retail 1500–6000 ₽/month. In 2022 the reclassified NMN as an investigational new drug in the US – commercial NMN supplements there now operate in a grey area. The analogue NR (nicotinamide riboside) retained dietary supplement status in the US, and some manufacturers switched to it.

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Frequently asked

What is Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) used for?

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Athletic endurance (evidence tier D), Anti-aging and longevity (evidence tier D), Memory and concentration enhancement (evidence tier D). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.

What are the side effects of Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)?

Common side effects of Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) (≥ 1 in 100): Nausea, GI discomfort, Facial flushing, Headache. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.

Is Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) safe during pregnancy?

Use in pregnancy has not been studied; supplement is not recommended.

Is Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) compatible with breastfeeding?

Use during breastfeeding has not been studied; supplement is not recommended.

Who should not take Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)?

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is contraindicated in: Pregnancy and breastfeeding; Age under 18; Hypersensitivity; Active malignancy (theoretical risk of tumour NAD metabolism stimulation). Full list in the Safety section.

Other drugs in this group

Olive leaf extract (Olea europaea, oleuropein), Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid and GLA), Omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid), Panax ginseng (Korean/Chinese ginseng), Retinol, Urolithin A (ellagitannin metabolite, mitophagy activator), Biotin, Fisetin (flavonol from strawberries, mangoes and onions)