Two distinct compounds (NMN and NR) · each with multiple forms. Stability and bioavailability vary enormously · form + brand are critical.
Dissolution under tongue
Best for
Ideal use: 80% cases · best cost/efficacy ratio.
Advantages
Better bioavailability (bypass hepatic first-pass) · detectable plasma effects 30-60 min · form used in Yoshino 2021 trial.
Disadvantages
Unpleasant bitter taste (but tolerable). Needs discipline (hold 60s under tongue). NMN unstable in warm saliva.
Gastro-resistant capsules
Best for
Ideal use: travel · patients avoiding tastes · budget covers premium DR brand.
Advantages
Comfortable · tasteless · travel-friendly. DR (delayed release) capsules improve bioavailability vs normal capsules (which degrade in stomach).
Disadvantages
Lower bioavailability than sublingual (50-70% per Yi 2023 RCT). Verify brand uses NMN-specific DR caps.
Nicotinamide riboside · ChromaDex patent
Best for
Ideal use: patients preferring form with more RCTs · ample budget · USA where NMN unavailable.
Advantages
Form with most human RCT data (Conze 2019 + Brakedal 2022). FDA-cleared for USA supplement use (NMN was withdrawn USA 2022). Stable oral · no sublingual needed.
Disadvantages
Expensive (patent brand · ~50-70 €/month). One more enzymatic conversion than NMN (NRK → NMN → NAD+). Slower PK curve.
Ideal use: 80% cases · best cost/efficacy ratio.
Ideal use: travel · patients avoiding tastes · budget covers premium DR brand.
Ideal use: patients preferring form with more RCTs · ample budget · USA where NMN unavailable.
Two distinct compounds (NMN and NR) · each with multiple forms. Stability and bioavailability vary enormously · form + brand are critical.