02 · Longevity, Peptides & Anti-Aging
Sermorelin vs NAD+ vs glutathione: what is the difference?
Sermorelin, NAD+ and glutathione are the three most common prescriptions in online longevity programs, and they do different things: sermorelin prompts your body to release its own growth hormone, NAD+ is a coenzyme your cells use to make energy, and glutathione is an antioxidant your body already produces. All three are compounded, not FDA-approved, and need a prescription. Online prices: sermorelin $99–$199/month across 6 programs, NAD+ $93–$224/month across 7 programs, glutathione $99–$159/month across 3 programs.
Side by side
| Sermorelin | NAD+ | Glutathione | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | A short peptide that mimics GHRH, the hormone that signals the pituitary gland to release growth hormone | A coenzyme (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) that cells use in energy metabolism | An antioxidant made of three amino acids, produced by the body |
| How it’s taken online | Injection under the skin; some programs offer tablets | Injection; some programs offer nasal spray, drops or cream | Injection |
| Online price | $99–$199/month across 6 programs | $93–$224/month across 7 programs | $99–$159/month across 3 programs |
| FDA status of what’s sold online | Compounded — not FDA-approved | Compounded — not FDA-approved | Compounded — not FDA-approved |
| Prescription needed | Yes | Yes | Yes |
What the evidence does and doesn’t show
Programs market these treatments for energy, sleep, recovery and healthy aging. What has not been shown is that any of them slows aging in healthy adults: there are no large, long-term trials proving that. Evidence comes mostly from small studies, short-term measurements (such as hormone or NAD+ levels) and clinical experience.
That doesn’t make them useless — it means expectations should be modest and a clinician should decide whether one fits your situation, especially if you have a hormone-sensitive condition, take other medications, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Which one do people choose, and why
- Sermorelin is usually chosen by adults interested in growth-hormone-related goals (sleep, body composition, recovery) who want to stimulate their own production rather than take growth hormone itself.
- NAD+ is usually chosen for energy and cellular-health goals. Injections are the most common form; nasal sprays and drops are usually priced lower — ask the clinician how the dose compares.
- Glutathione is usually chosen as an antioxidant add-on, often bundled with NAD+.
- Several programs sell bundles (for example NAD+ + sermorelin); compare the bundle price with buying each separately.
Where to start
Compare programs side by side on our longevity comparison, see what each costs in our sermorelin, NAD+ and glutathione price guides, and check that the program is legitimate before paying (how to check).
Common questions
What is the difference between sermorelin and NAD+?
Sermorelin is a peptide that prompts the pituitary gland to release growth hormone; NAD+ is a coenzyme cells use to make energy. They are prescribed for different goals and can be prescribed together.
Is sermorelin the same as growth hormone (HGH)?
No. Sermorelin is not growth hormone; it signals your body to release its own. It still requires a prescription and clinician follow-up.
Are NAD+ nasal sprays as good as injections?
They are needle-free and usually priced lower, but they are a different form with a different dose. Ask the clinician which form fits your goal.
Do these treatments slow aging?
That has not been shown in large, long-term trials in healthy adults. Evidence is mostly from small studies and short-term measurements.
Every number comes from the program profiles, which list their sources and check dates; values we couldn't confirm are left out, not estimated. Prices change often — confirm with the program before enrolling. We may earn a commission from some programs; that never changes the numbers. Not medical advice. See our methodology and editorial policy.
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