NAD+ and Psoriasis: Can NAD+ Therapy Help?
If you live with psoriasis, you may have seen discussions online about NAD+ therapy and inflammation.
It is understandable to wonder whether NAD+ could help with your skin or support your existing treatment.
Research into NAD+ and inflammatory pathways is developing. However, intravenous NAD+ therapy is not currently
an established or proven treatment for psoriasis.
NAD+ therapy should not replace medication, creams, phototherapy or specialist treatment prescribed for psoriasis.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition. It can cause patches of skin that are dry, scaly, itchy,
sore or inflamed.
Psoriasis involves the immune system and can vary considerably between patients. Some people experience small,
localised areas, while others have more widespread or severe symptoms.
Some people with psoriasis may also develop joint pain, stiffness or swelling associated with psoriatic arthritis.
These symptoms should be discussed with a GP or specialist.
What is NAD+?
NAD+ stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. It is a naturally occurring coenzyme found in the body’s cells.
NAD+ is involved in processes including:
- Cellular energy production
- Normal cellular metabolism
- DNA repair processes
- Mitochondrial function
- Cell signalling
Researchers are studying NAD+ and NAD-related compounds in several areas of health, including ageing,
metabolism, immune function and inflammation.
Can NAD+ therapy treat psoriasis?
At present, there is not enough clinical evidence to say that intravenous NAD+ therapy can treat,
control or cure psoriasis.
Some research has examined NAD-related pathways, nicotinamide, nicotinamide riboside and topical NAD
in connection with psoriasis and inflammation.
These studies are scientifically interesting, but they do not prove that an intravenous NAD+ infusion
will improve psoriasis in routine clinical practice.
We do not offer NAD+ therapy as a replacement for established psoriasis care.
Why are researchers interested in NAD+ and psoriasis?
NAD+ is involved in cellular processes connected with metabolism, oxidative stress, immune activity
and inflammatory signalling.
Because psoriasis is an inflammatory condition involving the immune system, researchers are exploring
whether altering NAD-related pathways could have future therapeutic value.
More high-quality human trials are needed before firm conclusions can be made about effectiveness,
appropriate dosing, treatment schedules and long-term safety.
Can someone with psoriasis have NAD+ therapy?
Having psoriasis does not automatically determine whether someone is suitable for NAD+ therapy.
Suitability must be assessed individually.
A clinical assessment should consider:
- Your current psoriasis treatment
- Prescription and non-prescription medicines
- Other medical conditions
- Previous reactions to intravenous treatments
- Allergies
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- The reason you are considering NAD+ therapy
You should tell the clinician about all medicines you currently use, including creams, tablets,
injections, biologic medicines and supplements.
Should I stop my psoriasis medication before NAD+ therapy?
No. Do not stop, reduce or change prescribed psoriasis treatment unless the healthcare professional
responsible for your care tells you to do so.
NAD+ therapy should not be used as a substitute for established psoriasis treatment or specialist dermatology care.
Established treatments for psoriasis
The appropriate treatment depends on the type, location and severity of your psoriasis, as well as how it affects your life.
Treatment may include:
- Emollients and moisturising treatments
- Topical corticosteroids
- Vitamin D preparations
- Other topical medicines
- Phototherapy
- Systemic medicines
- Biologic medicines
Your GP, pharmacist, dermatologist or specialist psoriasis team can advise which options may be appropriate for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does NAD+ cure psoriasis?
No. There is currently no good clinical evidence that intravenous NAD+ therapy cures psoriasis.
Can NAD+ reduce psoriasis inflammation?
NAD-related pathways are involved in inflammation and immune function, and research is continuing.
However, this does not prove that an NAD+ infusion will reduce psoriasis symptoms in patients.
Is NAD+ approved as a psoriasis treatment?
Intravenous NAD+ is not an established psoriasis treatment within current NHS or NICE psoriasis treatment pathways.
Can I have NAD+ while taking psoriasis medicine?
This depends on your medicines, health history and individual circumstances.
A clinician must review your current treatment before deciding whether NAD+ therapy may be suitable.
Can I replace my psoriasis medication with NAD+?
No. You should continue prescribed psoriasis treatment unless the healthcare professional managing your condition
advises you to change it.
What should I do if my psoriasis is getting worse?
Contact your GP, dermatologist or psoriasis team. Seek prompt medical advice if your skin becomes rapidly worse,
widespread, very painful or is accompanied by fever or feeling seriously unwell.
Ask about NAD+ therapy
If you have psoriasis and are considering NAD+ therapy for another reason, our clinical team can discuss your health,
current medication and treatment goals before deciding whether it may be suitable.
We will explain the limits of the current evidence clearly. We will not present NAD+ as a proven treatment for psoriasis.
Medical information
This page provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Speak to your GP or dermatologist about the management of psoriasis.