Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.
| DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) | NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Supplements | Supplements |
| Standard Dose | 25-50mg daily (men); 10-25mg daily (women) | 300-600mg daily |
| Timing | Morning (mimics natural circadian peak). With food. | Morning with or without food. |
| Cycle Duration | Ongoing under supervision with regular blood monitoring (DHEA-S, testosterone, estradiol, PSA in men) | ongoing |
| Evidence Level | moderate_human | Moderate-Strong |
DHEA is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone, produced primarily by the adrenal zona reticularis. It serves as a precursor for both androgens (testosterone, DHT via 3beta-HSD and 17beta-HSD) and estrogens (estradiol, estrone via aromatase). DHEA-S (sulfated form) acts as a neurosteroid, positively modulating NMDA receptors and antagonizing GABA-A receptors (cognitive enhancement/alertness). It also modulates immune function (enhances Th1 immunity, IL-2 production), supports bone mineral density via estrogenic metabolites, enhances insulin sensitivity via PPAR-alpha activation, and opposes cortisol's catabolic effects (DHEA:cortisol ratio is a stress/aging biomarker).
25-50mg daily (men); 10-25mg daily (women)
Morning (mimics natural circadian peak). With food.
Ongoing under supervision with regular blood monitoring (DHEA-S, testosterone, estradiol, PSA in men)
NR is converted to NMN by nicotinamide riboside kinases (NRK1/NRK2), then to NAD+ via the salvage pathway. Like NMN, elevated NAD+ activates sirtuins, PARPs, and CD38. NR has demonstrated ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and elevate brain NAD+ levels. It supports mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and circadian rhythm regulation through SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of BMAL1 and CLOCK proteins.
300-600mg daily
Morning with or without food.
ongoing
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