If you’re researching NAD+ therapy in Chicago, you’ve probably noticed there are three main ways to get it: IV infusions, subcutaneous injections, and nasal spray. All three deliver nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) — a coenzyme essential for cellular energy, DNA repair, and longevity — but they differ dramatically in bioavailability, time commitment, cost, and convenience.
For busy professionals juggling careers, families, and wellness goals, the “best” option isn’t the one with the highest dose — it’s the one you’ll actually stick with while getting real, measurable results.
At Refine by Tulsi, we help patients choose NAD+ protocols that fit their real lives. This guide breaks down all three methods so you can make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, goals, and schedule.
Why NAD+ Matters (Especially After 40)
NAD+ powers your mitochondria — the “batteries” of every cell in your body. It’s critical for:
- Energy production — Converting food into usable cellular fuel
- DNA repair — Protecting against aging and cellular damage
- Metabolic function — Regulating blood sugar, fat metabolism, and weight
- Cognitive clarity — Supporting focus, memory, and mental sharpness
- Longevity pathways — Activating sirtuins, which influence healthy aging
The NAD+ Decline Problem
NAD+ levels decline by up to 50% between ages 40 and 60. This decline accelerates during perimenopause and menopause in women due to estrogen’s role in NAD+ synthesis.
The result: brain fog, chronic fatigue, metabolic slowdown, poor recovery, and that feeling of “I’m doing everything right but still feel off.”
NAD+ therapy aims to restore those levels — but the delivery method determines how much actually reaches your cells, how quickly, and for how long.
The Three NAD+ Delivery Methods
At Refine by Tulsi’s Lincoln Park and Logan Square locations, we offer all three NAD+ delivery methods. Here’s how they compare:
NAD+ IV Infusion
The Gold Standard (When Time Allows)NAD+ is delivered directly into your bloodstream via intravenous drip over 1–3 hours in a clinical setting. This is the most powerful option available at our Chicago locations.
Best For:
- Professionals with flexible schedules or ability to block 2–3 hours
- Severe fatigue, brain fog, or recovery issues needing fast improvement
- Preparing for high-demand periods (projects, travel, events)
- Intensive longevity or anti-aging protocols
NAD+ Subcutaneous Injections
The Middle GroundNAD+ is injected under the skin using a small insulin-style needle. Can be done at home after initial training or administered at our Chicago locations.
Best For:
- Consistent NAD+ levels without the time commitment of IV sessions
- Comfortable with self-administration (or willing to learn)
- Frequent travelers or unpredictable schedules
- Already doing peptide therapy or GLP-1 injections
NAD+ Nasal Spray
The Convenience PlayNAD+ delivered via nasal mucosa using a metered-dose spray. Absorbed through the nasal lining into the bloodstream.
Best For:
- Testing NAD+ with minimal commitment before bigger investments
- Extremely time-constrained — can use anywhere, anytime
- Maintenance after an IV or injection series
- Needle-averse individuals wanting easiest entry point
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | NAD+ IV | Injections | Nasal Spray |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 90–100% | 80–90% | 30–50% |
| Time commitment | 1–3 hours | 30 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Location | In-office only | At-home or in-office | Anywhere |
| Onset of effects | Hours to 1 day | 1–3 days | Days to weeks |
| Monthly cost (maintenance) | $300–$600 | $300–$600 | $200–$350 |
| Physician oversight | Required | Recommended | Optional |
| Side effects | Nausea, flushing (during infusion) | Mild site tenderness | Nasal irritation (occasional) |
Which NAD+ Method Should You Choose?
At Refine by Tulsi, we match NAD+ therapy to your lifestyle, not a template. Here’s our decision framework:
Choose NAD+ IV if:
- You need fast, noticeable results for severe fatigue or brain fog
- You can block 2–3 hours once a month or quarterly at our Lincoln Park or Logan Square locations
- You want the highest bioavailability and physician supervision
- You’re doing an intensive longevity or anti-aging protocol
Choose NAD+ Injections if:
- You want consistent NAD+ levels without the time commitment
- You’re comfortable with self-administration (we provide training)
- You travel frequently or have an unpredictable schedule
- You’re already doing peptide therapy or GLP-1 injections
Choose NAD+ Nasal Spray if:
- You want to try NAD+ with minimal commitment
- You’re extremely time-constrained and need convenience
- You’re using it as maintenance after an IV or injection series
- You’re needle-averse and want the easiest entry point
Real Patient Experiences in Chicago
I’m a corporate attorney and was hitting a wall every afternoon — brain fog, no energy, relying on coffee that wasn’t working anymore. I did a 250mg NAD+ IV at the Lincoln Park location on a Friday afternoon. By Saturday I felt sharper than I had in months. I can’t do it weekly, but I schedule one every 6–8 weeks before trial prep or big deadlines. It’s my secret weapon.
I’m a consultant on the road 3 weeks a month. I can’t commit to IV appointments. Dr. Ruof trained me to do subcutaneous NAD+ injections at home. I do 50mg Monday/Thursday mornings. It takes 30 seconds. My energy is steady, my sleep is better, and I don’t get that 2pm crash anymore. It fits my life.
I wanted to try NAD+ but wasn’t ready for IVs or injections. I started with a nasal spray — one spray in the morning. Honestly, It felt great but impact didn’t last too long. The spray is fine if you want something easy, great for hangovers, focus needed instantly but if you actually want longer term results, injections or IV are worth it.
NAD+ as Part of Your Longevity Protocol
NAD+ therapy works even better when combined with other longevity and optimization therapies. At Refine by Tulsi, we often integrate NAD+ with:
- Peptide Therapy — Synergistic protocols for energy, recovery, and cognitive function
- Hormone Optimization — Especially for women experiencing perimenopause or menopause-related energy decline
- IV Vitamin Therapy — Combine NAD+ with targeted micronutrients for enhanced cellular function
- Metabolic Support — Including GLP-1 therapy for weight management and insulin sensitivity
NAD+ in Refine Her Memberships
Our Refine Her Thrive Tier includes monthly NAD+ IV or at-home injection kits as part of comprehensive women’s wellness care. Balance Tier members receive NAD+ at preferred pricing.
This is the most cost-effective way to maintain consistent NAD+ therapy while receiving holistic physician oversight for hormones, metabolism, and longevity optimization.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will I feel a difference?
IV: Most patients at our Chicago locations notice improved energy and mental clarity within hours to 1 day.
Injections: Effects typically appear within 2–5 days of consistent use.
Nasal spray: Subtle effects over 1–2 weeks, if at all.
Is NAD+ safe?
Yes, when administered properly. At Refine by Tulsi, all NAD+ IV and injection protocols are physician-supervised. Side effects are generally mild and temporary (nausea, flushing, injection site tenderness).
Can I do NAD+ if I’m on other medications?
Most likely, yes — but this must be discussed with Dr. Kotecha during your consultation. NAD+ is well-tolerated and rarely interacts with medications, but a full review of your health history is essential.
How long do the effects last?
IV: Peak effects last 3–7 days; benefits taper over 2–4 weeks
Injections: With consistent dosing (2–3x weekly), effects remain steady
Nasal spray: Effects (if noticeable) are subtle and require daily use
Can I travel with NAD+ injections or nasal spray?
Injections: Yes, with proper storage (refrigeration) and TSA-compliant packaging. We provide travel kits for our Chicago patients.
Nasal spray: Yes, easily portable with no special storage needs.
Do I need labs before starting NAD+?
Not required, but recommended. We often run baseline labs to track improvements in energy markers, inflammation, and metabolic function as part of our concierge medicine approach.
The Bottom Line
For busy Chicago professionals, the best NAD+ delivery method is the one you’ll actually use consistently.
- If you can block time once a month and want the most powerful intervention → NAD+ IV
- If you want steady, reliable support without the time commitment → NAD+ Injections
- If convenience is paramount and you’re okay with lower efficacy → Nasal Spray
At Refine by Tulsi, we help you choose based on your real life — not a textbook protocol. Whether you’re a consultant on the road 20 days a month, a parent juggling kids and a career, or a founder in the middle of a fundraise, there’s an NAD+ protocol that fits.
Ready to Stop Feeling Tired and Start Feeling Like Yourself Again?
Schedule your NAD+ consultation with Dr. Tulsi Kotecha at our Lincoln Park or Logan Square location.
Book Your Consultation Call (618) 298-8574This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. NAD+ therapy should be administered under the guidance of a qualified physician. Individual results may vary.