By Eric Ruiz, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, RNC-OB, Axis Health Clinic, Wilbraham, MA
Quick answer: NAD+ levels decline with age, and sermorelin signals your body to release more of its own growth hormone. Some people report better energy, sleep and recovery, but human research is still limited, and neither treatment is proven to reverse aging. Compounded NAD+ and sermorelin are not FDA-approved.
Scroll through social media and you'll see NAD+ and sermorelin described as anti-aging miracles. They're promoted as the key to boundless energy, a sharper mind, and turning back the clock. The truth is more interesting, and more honest, than the hype.
Here's what these treatments are, what the science actually supports, and how to think about them realistically.
What Is NAD+?
NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a molecule found in every cell of your body. It plays a central role in turning food into energy and supports processes involved in cellular repair.
What the hype gets right: NAD+ levels decline with age, and that decline has been linked to aspects of aging in laboratory research. Human studies have shown that NAD+ precursors can raise NAD+ levels in the body (Martens et al., 2018).
What the hype gets wrong: Raising NAD+ levels isn't the same as reversing aging. Much of the most exciting research has been done in animals, and human studies so far have been small and short. Claims that NAD+ will dramatically extend lifespan or cure fatigue go beyond what the evidence shows.
The honest takeaway: Some people report feeling more energized and clear-headed with NAD+ injections. It may be a reasonable option to support overall wellness, as long as you go in with realistic expectations.
What Is Sermorelin?
Sermorelin is a peptide that mimics growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Rather than giving you growth hormone directly, it signals your pituitary gland to produce and release more of your own growth hormone (Walker, 2006).
Sermorelin was previously FDA-approved as a brand-name product. That product was later discontinued by the manufacturer for business reasons, not safety concerns, and today sermorelin is prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies with a prescription.
What the hype gets right: Because sermorelin works with your body's natural feedback system, it's considered a gentler approach than taking growth hormone directly (Walker, 2006). Some people report better sleep, improved recovery, and more energy.
What the hype gets wrong: Sermorelin is not a shortcut to a dramatically younger body. Research in healthy adults is limited, and results vary from person to person. It works best as one part of a plan that includes good sleep, exercise, and nutrition.
The honest takeaway: Sermorelin may help support sleep quality, recovery, and overall vitality for the right person, but results are typically gradual and modest.
Important to Know
Compounded NAD+ and sermorelin are not FDA-approved products. They're prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies under a provider's prescription. That's why it matters to work with a provider who reviews your health history, explains realistic expectations, and monitors how you're doing.
These treatments aren't right for everyone. Your provider should review your medical history, current medications, and goals before you start.
Our Approach at Axis Health
We believe in straight talk. We won't promise miracles. If longevity support makes sense for your goals, we'll explain what to realistically expect.
We offer NAD+ and sermorelin, including a low-concentration NAD+ and sermorelin bundle, along with vitamin injections like B12, MIC with B12, and B complex. You can choose individual injections or a monthly subscription, and any longevity service can be added to an existing treatment plan at a discount.
Call 413-515-7320 or book a consultation online. We're at 2038 Boston Road, Suite 1, in Wilbraham, inside Viola Aesthetics Day Spa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does NAD+ do in the body?
NAD+ is a molecule in every cell that helps turn food into energy and supports cellular repair processes.
How is sermorelin different from growth hormone?
Sermorelin doesn't replace growth hormone. It prompts your pituitary gland to produce and release more of your own.
Is sermorelin legal?
Sermorelin was once FDA-approved as a brand-name product that was discontinued for business reasons. Today it's prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies with a prescription.
About the author: Eric Ruiz, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, RNC-OB, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner, 10-year US Air Force veteran, and founder of Axis Health Clinic in Wilbraham, MA. He has trained in men's health and testosterone therapy, women's hormone therapy, medical weight loss, and PRP and microneedling.
This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Individual results vary.
References
Martens CR, Denman BA, Mazzo MR, et al. Chronic nicotinamide riboside supplementation is well-tolerated and elevates NAD+ in healthy middle-aged and older adults. Nature Communications. 2018;9:1286.
Walker RF. Sermorelin: a better approach to management of adult-onset growth hormone insufficiency? Clinical Interventions in Aging. 2006;1(4):307-308.
US Food and Drug Administration. Bulk Drug Substances Used in Compounding Under Section 503A of the FD&C Act. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/human-drug-compounding/bulk-drug-substances-used-compounding-under-section-503a-fdc-act