As DCs, we’re always looking for ways to help our patients recover, thrive and live healthier lives.
Recently, NAD+ therapy delivered through iontophoresis has been making waves in the wellness and regenerative medicine world. Patients recovering from brain injuries, struggling with chronic fatigue or looking for a boost in mental clarity and energy are asking about it—and for good reason. This innovative therapy is easy to integrate into your practice and offers patients meaningful results. But what exactly is NAD+, how does iontophoresis work and why is it becoming so popular? Let’s take a closer look.
What is NAD+?
NAD+, or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a coenzyme found in every cell of the body, playing a vital role in energy production, DNA repair and overall cellular health. It’s essential for helping your body function properly, especially when it comes to brain health, energy and the aging process. The problem is NAD+ levels decline naturally with age and even more rapidly with injury, illness or chronic stress. This decline can contribute to fatigue, brain fog, inflammation and slower recovery. Restoring NAD+ has been shown to improve energy, sharpen cognitive function and support healing—making it a powerful option for patients who need an extra boost.
How does iontophoresis work?
Iontophoresis is a noninvasive method that uses a gentle electrical current to deliver NAD+ directly through the skin. This method ensures NAD+ is absorbed efficiently into the body. A small patch, worn for about 12 hours, delivers a steady dose of NAD+ into the bloodstream, giving patients a convenient and effective way to experience the benefits.
For DCs, iontophoresis is straightforward to implement in practice. While this treatment falls within the scope of practice for most DCs, it’s always a good idea to check with your state board to confirm the specific regulations in your state.
Why are patients asking for NAD+ therapy?
Patients are turning to NAD+ therapy for a variety of reasons, particularly when they’re recovering from brain injuries, struggling with low energy or wanting to maintain cognitive sharpness as they age.
For individuals recovering from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions, NAD+ therapy can make a significant difference. Brain injuries can leave patients feeling foggy, fatigued and mentally drained long after the initial event. NAD+ supports recovery by reducing inflammation, repairing damaged neurons and improving functioning of the mitochondria—the energy powerhouses within brain cells. As NAD+ levels are restored, many patients report improved focus, memory and mental clarity. This makes NAD+ therapy a game-changing option for athletes, accident victims or anyone managing post-concussion symptoms.
NAD+ therapy is also gaining traction among patients who want to maintain cognitive health and slow the effects of aging. As NAD+ levels naturally decline over time, patients often notice subtle but frustrating changes, like brain fog, forgetfulness and decreased mental energy. By boosting NAD+ levels, this therapy helps protect brain function, improve energy and slow the cellular aging process. Patients often describe feeling sharper, more focused and more engaged in their day-to-day lives.
Another group of patients who benefit from NAD+ therapy are those battling chronic fatigue or burnout. Low NAD+ levels can leave the body starved for energy at the cellular level, resulting in constant exhaustion and lack of motivation. By restoring NAD+, the body can produce energy more efficiently, helping patients feel recharged and revitalized. Many people describe it as “getting their energy back,” allowing them to recover faster and tackle life with renewed enthusiasm.
Integrating NAD+ therapy into your practice
Bringing NAD+ therapy into your practice is a seamless process. Start by identifying patients who might benefit—those recovering from brain injuries, dealing with chronic fatigue or seeking cognitive support. Tools like the Rivermead Questionnaire are excellent for assessing patients’ brain health, particularly for post-injury cases. Once a candidate is identified, you can offer NAD+ therapy in a simple, structured way. Treatments are often done in a series, with patients wearing the patch for 12-14 hours to achieve the best results.
The process is easy, noninvasive and fits effortlessly into a busy practice. Patients appreciate how comfortable and straightforward it is, and many report noticeable improvements in energy, focus and recovery within just a few sessions.
What results can patients expect?
The feedback from patients receiving NAD+ therapy is overwhelmingly positive. Many report feeling clearer, more focused and mentally sharper, especially if they’ve been struggling with brain fog or fatigue. For those recovering from brain injuries, improvements in focus, memory and mental energy are often life-changing. Others describe a significant boost in overall energy and stamina, helping them recover from burnout or chronic fatigue. Whether they’re managing the effects of injury, aging or stress, NAD+ therapy offers a safe, natural way for them to feel better and function at their best.
Final thoughts
NAD+ iontophoresis is an exciting and effective tool that can make a real difference in your patients’ lives. Whether you’re working with athletes recovering from concussions, aging patients looking to maintain their cognitive edge or individuals who need help battling fatigue, NAD+ therapy is a natural solution that supports healing and vitality at the cellular level. Another common form of NAD+ growing in popularity is the NAD+ IV drip, which can be administered with a RN or PA on staff.
As DCs, we’re uniquely positioned to offer therapies that improve function and quality of life. Take the time to check your state regulations and explore how this therapy can fit into your practice—you’ll be giving your patients a powerful tool to take charge of their health and well-being.
MARK SANNA, DC, ACRB LEVEL II, FICC, is the CEO of Breakthrough Coaching, a practice management company for chiropractic and multidisciplinary practices. He is a Board member of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, a member of the Chiropractic Summit and a member of the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan Leadership Committee. To learn more, visit mybreakthrough.com or call 800-723-8423. Sanna is the author of “Cracking the Code: Marketing Chiropractic—How Chiropractors Align Spines and Minds,” available on amazon.com.
