What colour should NAD+ be?

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a naturally occurring coenzyme that plays a vital role in energy production, cellular repair and healthy ageing. As interest in NAD+ supplements and injections grows, so does the confusion around its colour. Many people are surprised to find that NAD+ can appear yellow, especially in higher concentrations, and often worry this may be a sign of poor quality or contamination.

In this article, we explore why the colour of NAD+ can vary, whether yellow NAD+ is beneficial or safe, and how to choose a high-quality product.

Key Takeaways

Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about the colour of NAD+:

• The colour of NAD+ can vary from colourless to yellow, depending on concentration, formulation and light absorption.

• A more yellow colour in higher strength NAD+ products is not a sign of degradation, but a result of increased optical density and trace NADH.

• Yellow NAD+ may indicate a purer and more potent product.

• Pharmaceutical standards allow for slight colour variations, provided the product meets purity and stability criteria.

• When selecting a NAD+ product, it’s essential to check the supplier’s testing methods, quality certifications and handling practices.

Why does the colour of NAD+ vary?

The colour of NAD+ solutions often ranges from clear to yellow, depending on several factors. This variation is entirely normal and does not necessarily reflect a difference in quality.

One of the most common causes of a yellow hue is a higher concentration. For example, a 1000mg NAD+ cartridge may appear noticeably more yellow than a 500mg version, simply because it absorbs more light, which affects how it looks.

Another reason for the yellow tint is the presence of trace amounts of NADH. NAD+ and NADH are closely related (NADH is the reduced form of NAD+). During production or storage, small amounts of NAD+ can convert to NADH, which absorbs light at a wavelength of 340nm, giving the solution a slightly yellow appearance. This is expected and harmless.

As well as concentration and oxidation, raw material variations, stabilisers and excipients (inactive ingredients) used in the formulation can also affect the colour. These ingredients help to stabilise NAD+, particularly in injectable form, but may add a slight yellow tinge.

Cosmetic differences are not considered a flaw. Pharmaceutical standards permit small variations in colour. As long as the product maintains a purity of 98% or higher, demonstrates bioactivity and remains chemically stable, the yellow appearance is perfectly acceptable.

What matters most is how the product performs under laboratory testing. Techniques like high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), UV-Vis spectrophotometry and mass spectrometry confirm the quality, stability and potency of the NAD+. 

In short, the colour is not a reliable way to judge the quality of NAD+.

What are the benefits of yellow NAD+?

A common misconception is that a yellow tint in NAD+ means the product has degraded. However, this is not the case. The yellow appearance can be a sign of a more stable, potent and high-quality product.

Yellow NAD+ often reflects higher concentrations, which may deliver stronger results when used appropriately. These formulations may be more effective at supporting energy metabolism, DNA repair and healthy ageing, especially when used under medical guidance.

A slight yellow hue also suggests the presence of stabilisers or excipients (ingredients) that help preserve NAD+ from degradation due to light, heat or oxidation. This enhances the shelf life and effectiveness of the product.

As well as this, the appearance of NAD+ can sometimes be linked to the raw materials used during production. Purer raw ingredients and pharmaceutical-grade techniques may mean the product has a more vibrant colour.

Ultimately, the yellow colour should be viewed positively. Rather than indicating impurity or degradation, it often reflects a carefully manufactured and thoroughly tested formulation designed for optimal bioavailability and effectiveness.

Is yellow NAD+ scientifically proven as safe?

Yes, yellow NAD+ is scientifically proven to be safe when produced to recognised pharmaceutical standards. According to product data from leading suppliers such as Sigma-Aldrich, NAD+ is stable and suitable for laboratory and clinical use when stored and handled correctly [1].

This includes NAD+ that appears yellow due to oxidation, concentration or excipients. What matters is the product’s purity, stability and biological activity, all of which can be verified using validated testing methods.

The pharmaceutical industry accepts minor colour variations in injectable products as long as the following are true:

• The purity is equal to or greater than 98%

• The solution retains full bioactivity and effectiveness

• It is stored and used within recommended stability limits

Trace oxidation to NADH, which causes the yellow colour, is both expected and accounted for in product specifications. As long as the solution remains within defined stability parameters, it remains safe and effective to use.

How do I choose a NAD+ injection?

Choosing the right NAD+ injection depends on several key factors that help ensure quality, safety and effectiveness.

Check the concentration

Stronger formulations, such as 1000mg in 3ml, may appear more yellow but can offer enhanced effects due to a higher dose of active ingredient. This does not indicate poor quality.

Look for independent testing

Always choose a supplier that uses batch testing and certification. Independent lab testing, such as that performed by NHS-approved laboratories, confirms that the product meets accepted quality and safety standards.

Review storage guidelines

NAD+ is sensitive to light, temperature and oxygen. Proper storage is vital for maintaining stability. A high-quality supplier will advise you to store the solution in a fridge, away from direct sunlight, which helps prolong its shelf life and prevent degradation.

Understand the formulation

Ask about excipients, preservatives and stabilisers used in the product. These can influence the appearance and stability of the NAD+ solution.

Buy from a trusted source

Choose a provider that adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), uses pharmaceutical-grade ingredients and offers clear product information. Avoid buying NAD+ products from unverified or non-medical retailers, especially those that do not offer proof of quality testing.

At UK Meds, we provide the Vivere NAD+ self-injectable pen. This premium device delivers high-quality NAD+ subcutaneously, meeting and exceeding the criteria outlined above.

Final Thoughts

The colour of NAD+ varies for valid scientific reasons, and a yellow appearance is not a cause for concern. On the contrary, it can indicate a stronger, more concentrated and stable product. High-quality NAD+ that appears yellow has often undergone strict quality control testing and meets pharmaceutical standards.

Understanding what influences the colour of NAD+ helps you make more informed choices and avoid misconceptions about quality or safety. When sourced responsibly and stored correctly, yellow NAD+ is not only safe but may also deliver improved results.

Sources

[1] NAD + , Free Acid