NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) vs Quercetin

Mechanism

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.

Standard Dosing

300-600mg daily

Timing

Morning with or without food.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• Mild nausea
• Warmth/flushing (mild)
• GI upset
• Fatigue in some during initial days

Contraindications

• Active cancer (same theoretical NAD+ concern as NMN)
• Pregnancy/lactation
• Theoretical cancer concern shared with NMN

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Mechanism

Quercetin is a flavonoid that inhibits mast cell degranulation and histamine release, functions as a potent senolytic (selectively clearing senescent cells) when combined with dasatinib or fisetin, and activates AMPK and SIRT1 pathways. It inhibits PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling, suppresses NF-kB, and modulates JAK-STAT inflammatory cascades. As a zinc ionophore, it facilitates zinc entry into cells, which may inhibit viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase.

Standard Dosing

500-1000mg daily

Timing

With meals for absorption. For senolytic effect: 3-day pulse monthly on empty stomach.

Cycle Duration

ongoing for general use; pulsed monthly for senolytic protocols

Side Effects

• Headache
• Mild GI upset
• Tingling extremities at high doses
• Rare: kidney toxicity at very high doses

Contraindications

• Pregnancy/lactation at high doses
• Concurrent cyclosporine therapy

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