NR (Nicotinamide Riboside) vs Serrapeptase

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

Serrapeptase (serratiopeptidase) is a proteolytic enzyme originally isolated from the gut of the silkworm (Serratia marcescens). It hydrolyzes non-living tissue including fibrin, blood clots, cysts, and arterial plaque while sparing living tissue. It reduces bradykinin and other pain-mediating amines, provides anti-inflammatory effects by reducing neutrophil infiltration, and thins mucus by cleaving glycoprotein structures. It may also enhance antibiotic penetration into biofilms.

Standard Dosing

120,000-240,000 SPU (serratiopeptidase units) daily

Timing

On empty stomach (critical — food proteins will be digested instead of systemic absorption). 30+ minutes before meals or 2 hours after.

Cycle Duration

Cycle 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off

Side Effects

• GI discomfort
• Nausea
• Skin rash (rare)
• Muscle/joint pain (rare)
• Pneumonitis (very rare, case reports)

Contraindications

• Bleeding disorders
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2 weeks prior)
• Concurrent anticoagulant therapy
• Active peptic ulcers
• Active bleeding
• Pre-surgery
• Blood clotting disorders

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