What causes palpitations with Nicotinamide adenodesyl (NAD+) injections? | Rounds What causes palpitations with Nicotinamide adenodesyl (NAD+) injections? | Rounds
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What causes palpitations with Nicotinamide adenodesyl (NAD+) injections?

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Last updated: May 24, 2026 · View editorial policy

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) injection palpitations

Palpitations are an adverse effect reported during NAD+ administration, most commonly with faster administration routes (especially IV), and they typically occur alongside other infusion-related symptoms such as chest tightness, flushing, and nausea. [1][2]

Rapid IV NAD+ administration is associated with transient cardiovascular symptoms, including chest tightness and palpitations, and these symptoms are described as dose-rate dependent. [1] Slowing the infusion is described as a practical strategy to reduce infusion-related chest pressure and palpitations. [1]

Transient physiologic stress responses during administration

NAD+ administration is described as capable of provoking transient sensations such as hot flashes and a “head rush,” which commonly co-occur with palpitations and may contribute to perceived or physiologic tachycardia. [1] NAD+ administration is also associated with symptoms such as lightheadedness during therapy, which can be associated with transient hemodynamic changes during the administration period. [2]

Hypersensitivity or reaction-type mechanisms

Palpitations are included among reported “rare side effects” in NAD+ patient information documents, consistent with the possibility of an idiosyncratic reaction during administration. [3] Severe reactions are addressed in consent and safety materials for NAD+ infusions, including potential cardiac effects as part of allergic-type reactions. [4]

Injection-site and administration technique contributions

For non-IV administration, localized irritation is commonly reported, and administration technique issues (including subcutaneous technique problems) can increase discomfort and autonomic symptoms that may include perceived palpitations. [5]

Practical clinical risk framing

Palpitations lasting beyond the immediate administration window are a safety concern and should prompt evaluation by a clinician because serious reactions are addressed in NAD+ safety materials. [3][4] Palpitations accompanied by chest tightness, dyspnea, or signs of an allergic reaction should prompt urgent medical evaluation. [4]

Key actions when palpitations occur

Administration should be halted or slowed during the symptomatic event when palpitations occur during NAD+ infusion, consistent with described dose-rate dependence. [1] Medical evaluation is recommended for persistent symptoms or symptoms beyond a transient period after administration. [3][4]

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