Effects of Nicotinamide Riboside on Cognition and Sleep in Older Adults

The Benefits of Nicotinamide Riboside Upon Cognition and Sleep in Older Veterans

Not applicable Interventional State University of New York at Buffalo · NCT05500170

This study is testing if taking nicotinamide riboside can improve thinking skills and sleep quality in older adults who have trouble with both.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages65 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorState University of New York at Buffalo Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Buffalo, New York and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05500170 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of nicotinamide riboside (NR) supplementation on cognitive function and sleep quality in older adults. It aims to determine whether increasing levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) through NR can enhance brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, which is crucial for cognitive health. Participants will be assessed using both subjective and objective measures of sleep and cognition, with a focus on those experiencing cognitive impairment and poor sleep quality. The study will also explore the relationship between NR supplementation and serum BDNF levels.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults aged 65 years and above who experience poor sleep quality as indicated by a Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score greater than 5.

Not a fit: Patients with dementia or significant cognitive impairment, as indicated by a VA-SLUMS score below 20, are unlikely to benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new interventions that improve cognitive function and sleep quality in older adults, potentially delaying or preventing cognitive decline.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using nicotinamide riboside for cognitive and sleep improvement is novel, pre-clinical studies have shown promising results in enhancing cognition and sleep quality in animal models.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Sleep Quality. Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) global score \>5

Exclusion Criteria:

* Dementia. Veteran Affairs - St. Louis University Mental Status questionnaire (VA-SLUMS) score \<20

Where this trial is running

Buffalo, New York and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cognitive ImpairmentSleep Quality
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.