For patients in South Africa

NAD IV in Turkey from South Africa: what it is, and what we will not promise

NAD, short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, is a coenzyme found in the body’s cells. It binds with proteins to form the active enzymes cells use to metabolise fuel, and it is closely linked to niacin (vitamin B3). An NAD drip gives it, with IV fluids, directly into the bloodstream. NAD drips are widely marketed with big promises. This page sticks to what is known and explains how the drip would fit into a trip from South Africa.

What NAD does in the body

NAD is involved in metabolism, the chemical work cells do to release energy from food. Levels of NAD in the body are generally thought to fall with age, which is why NAD drips are offered as an energy and anti-ageing option. The drip runs through a fine tube into a vein. Our NAD IV therapy page has the original overview.

Who it is offered to

• Adults over 32, where the doctor finds it appropriate
• People interested in wellness support for energy levels or visible signs of ageing
• Not anyone who is pregnant

If you have a long-term condition, such as diabetes, arthritis, an inflammatory bowel condition or a neurological illness, keep it under the care of your own doctor. An NAD drip is not a remedy for any of these, and you should not change any medication because of it.

A medical check comes first

Before any drip the doctor reviews your medical history, current medicines, allergies and whether you could be pregnant, then decides whether the drip is right for you and at what dose. If it is not, you will be told.

What the session is like

A cannula is placed in a vein in the arm and the NAD solution runs in with IV fluids while staff monitor you. NAD infusions are usually run slowly, because a fast rate can cause discomfort such as nausea, flushing or a tight feeling in the chest, so a session can take noticeably longer than other drips. Ask how long yours is planned to take, and tell staff straight away if you feel unwell.

Planning the trip from South Africa

A direct flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Istanbul takes around ten hours, followed by a short flight to İzmir. Flying all that way for one drip is hard to justify; it is more realistic as part of a stay for other treatment, where the doctor can time it sensibly. İzmir is one hour ahead of South Africa, and South Africans need an e-Visa. Medical schemes generally do not cover elective drips abroad, and standard travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment, so check both. Compare other options in our skin treatments guide, recovery boosters guide and anti-ageing treatments guide, or the vitamin C IV and alpha lipoic acid IV pages.

Our doctors are board-certified and our pricing is transparent; see clinic facts. The treatment guarantee sets out the cover for medical complications arising from treatment, and the complaints page explains how problems are handled.

What we will not do

We will not tell you that an NAD drip will reverse ageing, clear your body of toxins or help any medical condition. We will not give it during pregnancy or without a medical review. Results vary, and a drip is not a substitute for medical care.

Frequently asked questions

What is NAD?

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, a coenzyme that binds with proteins in the body to form the enzymes cells use to metabolise fuel.

Who is NAD IV offered to?

Mainly adults over 32, after a medical review. It is not given during pregnancy.

Can NAD IV help a medical condition?

We do not offer it for any illness. If you have a long-term condition, keep it under the care of your own doctor and do not change any medication because of a drip.

What decides the cost of NAD IV?

The dose, the number of sessions and whether it is combined with other treatment during your stay. A figure is given after your medical review.

Is it worth flying from South Africa just for NAD IV?

Usually not. It makes more sense as part of a stay you are already planning for another treatment.

Start with a free online consultation. Planning the trip? Read the guide for South African patients and the e-Visa guide.