Nicotinamide riboside / NR

Also known as NR, niagen, nicotinamide riboside.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Nicotinamide riboside / NR?

In plain words

NR is a form of vitamin B3 that the body turns into NAD+, a molecule cells need to release energy from food and support repair. Researchers study it for its effects on aging, metabolism, and muscle and brain health. Human studies show that it can raise NAD+ levels in blood, but this does not establish that it slows aging or prevents disease.

Technical definition

Nicotinamide riboside (NR) is a pyridine nucleoside composed of nicotinamide linked to ribose and is a form of vitamin B3. Rather than acting at a specific receptor, it serves as a precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+): nicotinamide riboside kinases convert it to nicotinamide mononucleotide, which is then converted to NAD+, a cofactor involved in cellular energy metabolism and DNA repair. NR is marketed as a dietary supplement in the United States, not as an FDA-approved treatment for disease.

Educational information only. This page does not provide medical advice or determine whether a supplement is appropriate for you. Review supplements with a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you take medication, are pregnant, have surgery scheduled, or have a chronic medical condition.

Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.