NAD+ and Parkinson's: Norwegian research points to new solutions

What is Parkinson's disease - and why do brain cells lose energy?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects motor functions, but can also lead to cognitive and autonomic symptoms. The disease is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing nerve cells in the substantia nigra, a structure in the brainstem that is crucial for movement control.

A central theory in the development of Parkinson's disease is mitochondrial dysfunction. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of cells, and their function depends on adequate levels of NAD+. When NAD+ levels decrease, the mitochondria's ability to produce energy is reduced, which can lead to increased oxidative stress and cell death.

Research from the University of Bergen and Haukeland University Hospital has shown that supplementation with NAD+ precursors can improve mitochondrial function and reduce neuroinflammation in patients with Parkinson's disease. This gives hope that increasing NAD+ levels may be a strategy to slow the progression of the disease.

NAD+ and Parkinson's: The research that gives new hope

The NOPARK Study – Phase III study

The Norwegian NOPARK study is a phase III, double-blind, randomized clinical trial investigating the effect of nicotinamide riboside (NR) on disease progression in patients with early Parkinson's disease. The study includes 400 participants from 10 hospitals in Norway, and is expected to be completed in June 2025.

Read more: NOPARK study at Bergen Health

Briefly summarized:

• Design: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
  
  
• Dosage: 1000 mg NR per day
  
  
• Participants: 400 patients with Parkinson's
  
  
• Objective: Investigate whether NR supplementation can slow disease progression
  
  
• Status: The study is fully recruited and is expected to end in June 2025
  
  

This is one of the largest studies globally investigating NAD+ supplementation as a potential intervention for Parkinson's disease. The results could have major implications for future treatment.

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NOPARK Extension Study

Neuro-SysMed – Norway's national center for clinical research on neurodegenerative diseases – is also conducting an additional study: the NOPARK Extension Study. This focuses on the long-term use and safety of nicotinamide riboside supplementation.

Read more: Extension study at Bergen Health

Briefly summarized:

• Design: Open-label phase II study
  
  
• Dosage: 1200 mg NR per day
  
  
• Participants: (not disclosed)
  
  
• Objective: To investigate the safety of long-term NR supplementation
  
  
• Status: The study is underway and is nearing completion in 2025.
  

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What does previous research show?

Several studies have shown that supplementation of NAD⁺ precursors such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) can increase NAD⁺ levels in the brain and improve cellular metabolism.

A Norwegian phase I study , known as the NADPARK study , was led by Professor Charalampos Tzoulis at the University of Bergen. In this study, 30 patients with early Parkinson's disease received 1000 mg of NR daily for 30 days. The results showed that NR:

• Increased NAD⁺ levels in the brain
  
  
• Was well tolerated without side effects
  
  
• Improved energy metabolism and reduced neuroinflammation
  
  

The study is published in Movement Disorders (2022):
"The NADPARK study: A randomized phase I trial of nicotinamide riboside supplementation in Parkinson's disease"
→ See abstract on PubMed (PMID: 35235774)

The findings build on research at the University of Bergen, and are elaborated in a medical research thesis on mitochondrial dysfunction and NAD⁺ deficiency in Parkinson's disease:
“Targeting mitochondrial dysfunction and NAD⁺ deficiency in Parkinson's disease”
→ Read more at the University of Bergen (UiB BORA)

Studies with high-dose NR confirm safety and efficacy

In a recent clinical study published in NPJ Parkinson's Disease (December 2023, PMID: 38016950), doses of up to 3000 mg of nicotinamide riboside (NR) daily were tested over 30 days in people with Parkinson's disease. The results showed:

• Significant increase in NAD⁺ in both plasma and cerebrospinal fluid
  
  
• No side effects reported
  
  
• High tolerance even at very high doses
  
  

This study confirms that NR increases NAD⁺ levels in cerebrospinal fluid and is well tolerated, even at doses well above those typically recommended, strengthening the scientific basis for using NAD⁺ precursors as a potential supportive therapy in neurodegenerative diseases.

→ Read the published study in NPJ Parkinson's Disease via PubMed (PMID: 38016950)
→ Find dosage details in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05344404)

Additionally, animal studies with both NR and NMN have shown promising effects, including:

• Prolonged survival of dopamine-producing nerve cells
  
  
• Reduced accumulation of alpha-synuclein (a hallmark of Parkinson's)
  
  
• Improved motor function in experimental animals with Parkinson-like symptoms
  
  

These findings strengthen the hypothesis that NAD⁺ supplementation may be a promising strategy to slow neurodegenerative processes in the brain. The results from the ongoing NoPark studies could provide further insights – and potentially change how we understand and treat Parkinson's disease in the future.

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From research to hope

Although NAD+ supplementation is not currently an approved treatment for Parkinson's, the research points to a potential new avenue. NAD+ plays a key role in energy metabolism, neuroprotection, and cell repair – and for the first time, we see the potential to influence the course of the disease at a deeper biological level.

Several international research groups are closely following the developments in the NOPARK studies. The results may lay the foundation for future treatment strategies in which NAD+ precursors become an integral part of therapy.

NAD+: The life force of the cell - and why it collapses with age

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is one of the most important molecules in the body – and one of the most misunderstood. This small coenzyme is found in all living cells and acts as a kind of "biological power line" that transfers electrons in energy production. Without NAD+, the power plants of the cells – the mitochondria – stop working.

What makes NAD+ so critical?

NAD+ is involved in several vital functions:

• Energy production: NAD+ is necessary for mitochondria to produce ATP – the body's energy currency.
  
  
• DNA repair: NAD+ is used by enzymes that repair genetic damage, which is crucial for counteracting aging and cancer.
  
  
• Sirtuin activation: Sirtuins are enzymes that regulate aging processes, inflammation and cellular repair – and they are completely dependent on NAD+.
  
  
• Cell communication and stress response: NAD+ helps cells coordinate metabolism and repair, especially during oxidative stress.
  
  

In other words: NAD+ is not just an energy carrier – it is a key molecule for both short-term survival and long-term health.

The problem: NAD+ drops dramatically with age

Research shows that NAD+ levels in the body begin to decline as early as the 30s, and by the 40s they can be reduced by over 50% compared to adolescence.

This creates a vicious circle:

• Less NAD+ → poorer mitochondrial function
  
  
• Poorer mitochondria → more oxidative stress and cell damage
  
  
• More stress → greater need for repair and more NAD+ consumption
  
  
• Result: energy loss, cognitive decline and increased risk of disease
  
  

This pattern is not just theoretical. Several studies have linked lower NAD+ levels to an increased incidence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

What people with Parkinson's report after using NMN and NR

Although research is still ongoing, there are already many anecdotal reports from people with Parkinson’s who have tried NAD⁺ precursors like NMN and NR. These experiences provide valuable insight into how the supplements are experienced in everyday life – and are consistent with what we know about NAD⁺’s role in energy, cognition, and circadian rhythms.

1. Better energy and less fatigue

Profound fatigue is among the most bothersome non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's. Many users report:

• Increased daily energy and reduced "energy collapse"
  
  
• Better endurance during physical activity
  
  
• Less brain fog and easier concentration
  
  

This is consistent with research showing that NAD⁺ is crucial for the mitochondria's production of ATP – the cells' energy.

2. Cognitive clarity and focus

Several people report:

• Increased mental acuity
  
  
• Better word mobilization and concentration
  
  
• Less cognitive fatigue during demanding tasks
  
  

This is consistent with the fact that NAD⁺ increases have shown the ability to support neuronal function, reduce neuroinflammation, and activate sirtuins – factors involved in Parkinson's-related cognitive impairment.

3. Improved sleep and recovery

Some also report:

• Falling asleep faster and sleeping deeper
  
  
• Fewer awakenings
  
  
• Better recovery after both physical and mental exertion
  
  

This may be related to NAD⁺ regulating circadian rhythms and cellular repair through sirtuin activation and mitochondrial function.

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Norwegian research interest and development

It is worth noting that Norwegian research communities such as UiO , NTNU and OUS have increased their focus on NAD⁺-related processes – including mitochondrial health, aging and neurodegeneration. Some Norwegian participants are also involved in international Parkinson's studies where NAD⁺ boosters are included as an intervention.

Important: We do not claim that NAD⁺ supplements have a documented effect on Parkinson's disease. However, it is within the regulations to communicate that:

• Many users report improved functionality
  
  
• NR/NMN supports biological mechanisms that are often impaired in Parkinson's
  
  
• Research in the field is developing rapidly.

NMN and NR: Two paths to more NAD⁺ – what's the difference, and why do many choose both?

When the goal is to increase the body's NAD⁺ levels, there are two main precursors:
NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside) .
Both are natural building blocks the body uses to form NAD⁺, but they follow slightly different metabolic pathways.

What happens in the body?

Biochemically, the following happens:

• NR is first converted to NMN
  
  
• NMN is then converted to NAD⁺
  
  

This means that NMN is one step closer to the goal , and can therefore – according to both theory and animal research – provide a faster and more direct increase in NAD⁺ levels.

Which one is best?

Both have their strengths, and they complement each other:

• NMN has been shown in animal studies to provide a rapid and targeted increase in NAD⁺, particularly in tissues with high energy needs such as the brain, heart and muscles. Many users report improved energy, focus and mental clarity.
  
  
• NR has been available longer as a dietary supplement, and is therefore better documented in human studies. It is approved by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority and is used, among other things, in the ongoing Norwegian NoPark study on Parkinson's disease.
  
  

Therefore, we offer both

At livelonger.no, we believe it is not a question of either or , but of combining the best of both:

• Our NMN products provide a fast and direct NAD⁺ boost – ideal for those looking to support cognitive function, energy and recovery.
  
  
• AgeX Longevity Complex contains 300 mg of NR along with supporting substances such as TMG, resveratrol, pterostilbene, quercetin, fisetin and spermidine, etc. , which together provide both a powerful NAD⁺ boost and broad anti-aging effect.
  
  
  

Molecularly, NMN and NR are almost identical , and both lead to increased NAD⁺ levels. Many therefore choose to combine them – to achieve both rapid effects and long-term documented safety , supported by both research and user experiences.

AgeX & NMN from Live Longer – How our products support brain health

When the goal is to protect the brain, support cognitive function, and counteract age-related energy decline—especially in people at increased risk for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s—not all supplements are created equal. At Live Longer, we’ve developed two products that address exactly this need: AgeX Longevity Complex and the highest purity NMN .

AgeX – a complete NAD+ and longevity complex

AgeX is our premium formula for healthy aging, designed to:

• Boost NAD+ levels through 300 mg of NR (nicotinamide riboside)
  
  
• Support methylation and homocysteine ​​balance with 300 mg of TMG
  
  
• Activating sirtuins and reducing oxidative stress via resveratrol, pterostilbene, fisetin and quercetin
  
  
• Improve bioavailability with piperine
  
  
• Protect cells and support cognitive performance with zinc, D3 and L-theanine
  
  

Who is AgeX suitable for?

• Those who want to support brain health and cognitive clarity
  
  
• Those who want a broad anti-aging formula based on officially approved active ingredients
  
  
• Those who want to support long-term protection against neurodegeneration
  
  

Safety and documentation: NR is well documented and approved by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority. We have combined it with ingredients used in clinical research to provide maximum support for cellular energy metabolism, inflammation control and DNA repair.

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NMN – for those who want a faster and more direct NAD+ boost

Although NR is approved and well-documented, research suggests that NMN is even more effective in certain tissues – including the brain.

That's why we offer Norway's purest NMN powder and capsules , for those of you who want to:

• Get a direct NAD+ boost (without going through NR)
  
  
• Improve cognitive energy, memory and recovery
  
  
• Combine with AgeX or TMG for optimal effect
  
  

Best practices:

• Take NMN in the morning to support natural circadian rhythm and cortisol cycle
  
  
• Combine with light morning light , strength training and TMG to maximize NAD+ cycling
  

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How to get started – dosage, timing and combinations for maximum effect

Optimizing your NAD+ levels isn't just a matter of which supplement you choose—it's also about how and when you take it. Here are our top recommendations based on research, customer feedback, and biohacking practices.

1. Dosage

NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)

• Effective dose: 500–1000 mg daily (depending on age, goals, and health condition)
  
  
• Form: Powder or capsules (livelonger.no offers both in pure pharmaceutical quality)
  
  
  

AgeX Longevity Complex (with 300 mg NR per dose)

• Recommended dosage: 2 capsules daily (NR, TMG, resveratrol and more in each daily dose)
  
  
  
  
  

TMG (Trimethylglycine)

• Important supporter of methylation balance when increasing NAD+
  
  
• Typical dose: 300 mg - 2000mg, included in AgeX or as a separate supplement
  
  
  

2. Timing

• Take NMN or NR in the morning, preferably on an empty stomach , to support the body's natural NAD+ and cortisol rhythms.
  
  
• For optimal absorption, combine with light food with fat (such as avocado, fish oil/cod liver oil or olive oil) if you use capsules.
  
  
• Feel free to train fasted in the morning to support mitochondrial needs and NAD+-requiring recovery.
  
  

3. Combinations that provide synergistic effects

• NMN + TMG : For those who want fast results and safe methylation support
  
  
• AgeX + NMN : Combines broad anti-aging effect with extra power in the NAD+ system
  
  
• Resveratrol/pterostilbene (included in AgeX): May further activate sirtuins and enhance the effects of NAD+ boosting
  
  
• Vitamin D and Zinc (included in AgeX): Important for neuroprotection and immune regulation
  
  
  

4. Lifestyle that enhances the effect

• Get sunlight in the morning (or use a light therapy lamp) to synchronize your circadian rhythm and increase natural NAD+ production
  
  
• Exercise regularly – especially strength training and endurance training, which increases mitochondrial density
  
  
• Eat foods high in B vitamins : Liver, green leafy vegetables, whole grains
  
  
• Reduce alcohol and ultra-processed foods , which deplete the body's NAD+ stores
  

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Summary and Call to Action – What you can do today to support your brain health

Parkinson's disease represents one of the greatest health challenges in neurology of our time. Although there is still no cure, both Norwegian and international research points to one promising path forward: strengthening the cells' own defense mechanisms through increased NAD+ availability.

Through this article we have seen that:

• NAD+ is critical for energy production, DNA repair, and neuroprotection
  
  
• NAD+ levels drop dramatically with age – and this decline is linked to the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's
  
  
• Research, including the Norwegian NoPark study mentioned at the beginning of the article, is now investigating NAD+ precursors such as NR as potential tools to slow disease progression.
  
  
• NMN and NR – two ways to increase NAD+ – both have documented effects and complement each other
  
  
• Products from livelonger.no, such as AgeX and NMN, provide you with a research-based and safe alternative to support brain health and aging.
  
  

What can you do today?

1. Start with an NAD+ supplement:
   – Try AgeX if you want a broad-spectrum longevity formula
   - Try NMN if you want a powerful and targeted NAD+ boost
   – Use AgeX and NMN together for optimal effect and NAD+ boost
   
   
2. Support your body with the right timing and lifestyle:
   – Morning dose, movement, light and methylation support (TMG)
   
   
3. Be proactive – not reactive:
   – The best time to protect the brain is before symptoms appear
   
   

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