Chinese clinics sell NAD+ infusions to healthy people as an “anti-aging” service, using a substance involved in cellular metabolism
Chinese clinics sell NAD+ infusions to healthy people as an “anti-aging” service, using a substance involved in cellular metabolism
On August 27, the Chinese newspaper The Beijing News published an investigation into private clinics and cosmetic medicine facilities. Posing as clients and buyers, the journalists traced the process from “longevity” advertising to the prescribed dose, route of administration, and supply of the substance.
NAD+ is involved in cellular metabolism. The advertisements reviewed by the journalists turned this function into promises of “cellular energy” and rejuvenation. The instructions for “coenzyme I for injection”, which lists NAD+ as the active ingredient, specify three indications: reduced white blood cell count, ischemic heart disease, and inflammation of the heart muscle. The instructions specify intramuscular administration at 5 mg per day.
The Beijing News investigation describes a different practice. Clinic staff offered healthy clients intravenous infusions containing 150–250 mg of NAD+, priced from 2 980 to 19 800 yuan per procedure. The instructions describe an approved medical use, while sellers offered a paid service involving a different dose and intravenous administration. At one clinic, visitors first met with “health managers.” A doctor was called only when a visitor asked about safety.
The journalists also traced the substance through the supply chain. The investigation describes some of the raw material as a research reagent labeled as prohibited for human use. A franchise seller that supplied partners with these kits said that the powder was divided among unlabeled vials, diluted with sterile saline, and given an English label so that it could be presented as an “overseas” drug. The kits were sent to beauty salons and wellness centers together with advertising materials.
Employees of the manufacturer who were contacted by the journalists said:
“Coenzyme I for injection is a prescription drug intended for specific adjunctive therapeutic uses. The company has not authorized its use in intravenous infusions for aesthetic medicine or for off-label anti-aging purposes. Excessive doses and off-label use carry unknown safety risks.”
In the supply chain described by the investigation, “anti-aging” serves as the name of an expensive procedure. The buyer is promised “longevity,” while the seller determines the dose, route of administration, and origin of the substance.