Substance use disorders, such as drug and alcohol addiction, often co-occur with dual diagnosis mental health disorders. These conditions can be physically taxing during withdrawal. NAD therapy emerges as an effective approach to support the detox process, enhancing energy levels, mental alertness, and overall well-being. These positive effects can significantly contribute to the success of outpatient rehab at Refresh Recovery in San Diego.
NAD Therapy in San Diego
Treating with NAD at Refresh Recovery supports the detoxification, recovery, and healing process along with vitamin replenishing, hydration, and energy aid.
NAD therapy: what it is and how it works.
NAD treatment uses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide — a coenzyme found in every cell of your body — to support recovery from addiction.
NAD is essential for energy production at the cellular level. It also plays a role in DNA repair and brain function. As people use substances, their natural NAD levels drop. As a result, energy and recovery become harder.
NAD therapy involves an IV infusion of NAD over several hours. The goal: restore cellular function, reduce cravings, and ease early-stage withdrawal symptoms.
The protocol typically runs over 5 to 10 days, depending on individual needs.
NAD and Addiction
As individuals use drugs and alcohol, their natural NAD levels decrease. Drug and alcohol addiction hinders the conversion of energy from meals. Hypotheses suggest that individuals naturally producing less NAD may have a higher susceptibility to addiction, including heroin and methamphetamine, and co-occurring disorders like PTSD, stress, and others.
NAD Production in the Body
Why NAD levels matter for addiction recovery.
NAD is essential for cellular energy. Every cell in your body relies on it. As people use substances heavily, natural NAD synthesis declines.
The result: lower energy, slower brain function, harder recovery from withdrawal. The body’s natural repair systems become less efficient.
Restoring NAD through IV therapy aims to reverse this depletion. Studies have shown promising results for reducing acute withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
However, NAD therapy is not a standalone cure. It works best when paired with comprehensive behavioral therapy and ongoing support.
How Is NAD Therapy Used?
The NAD therapy protocol.
In NAD therapy, the coenzyme is administered intravenously. The infusion is gradual — typically over 4 to 8 hours per session.
A standard protocol runs daily for 5 to 10 consecutive days. The exact length depends on your history, the substances involved, and your overall health.
Most clients describe the experience as gentle. Some mild flushing or chest tightness can occur during the first hour, but it typically settles. Our medical staff monitors throughout each session.
After the infusion series, many clients report improved mood, reduced cravings, and better sleep. Importantly, the work continues afterward — through outpatient therapy, peer support, and ongoing wellness coaching.
NAD and Substance Use Disorders
Why Use NAD Therapy To Treat Addiction?
Why pair NAD therapy with other treatment?
Excessive use of drugs or alcohol depletes cellular NAD stores. Restoring NAD levels can help, but it is not a cure on its own.
NAD therapy works best as part of a comprehensive recovery plan. At Refresh Recovery, that includes:
- NAD IV infusions — to support cellular recovery and reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Evidence-based therapy — CBT, motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care
- Group therapy — peer support and shared learning
- Medication management — when clinically appropriate
- Co-occurring care — treating mental health conditions alongside substance use
Importantly, NAD therapy is one tool — not a stand-alone solution. Real recovery requires addressing the underlying patterns, not just the chemistry.
If you are curious whether NAD therapy is right for your recovery, reach out for a confidential consultation.