In a significant development for the wellness industry, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the use of NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) in Australia. This supplement, endorsed by longevity experts like Andrew Huberman and David Sinclair, is touted for its potential to enhance energy and mental clarity while possibly delaying cellular ageing. The approval was announced on Wednesday, and Longevity Life Sciences (LLS), the biotechnology company behind this move, aims to have NMN available in pharmacies by Friday.
Previously, NMN was only accessible in Australia through online purchases from international suppliers, raising concerns about its safety and authenticity. Sally Panton, co-founder and CEO of LLS, stated, “There was no certainty that it was safe, or it was what it said it was because it was coming from random entities offshore. So we saw this gap to bring it through the TGA and legitimise it.”
Understanding NMN and Its Role in Anti-Ageing
To grasp the significance of NMN, one must first understand sirtuins, a family of seven enzymes that protect the body against ageing and age-related diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. As we age, sirtuins become less active, requiring a molecule called NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) to function effectively. However, NAD levels naturally decline with age; a 50-year-old typically has half the NAD levels of a 20-year-old.
NMN serves as a precursor to NAD, potentially boosting its levels in the body. Harvard Medical School genetics professor David Sinclair has been a vocal advocate for NMN, emphasizing its potential to restore NAD levels to those typical of a more youthful state. NMN is naturally found in small quantities in foods like avocados, broccoli, and tomatoes, but at levels much lower than those used in clinical trials.
The Science Behind NMN
Research on NMN has shown promising results in animal studies. Mice have demonstrated increased NAD synthesis, suppressed age-related weight gain, enhanced energy metabolism, and improved physical performance. However, the evidence in humans is less conclusive. A 2023 study highlighted by NMN proponents reported increased blood NAD concentrations and potential enhancements in physical performance. Yet, longevity researcher Dr. Peter Attia criticized the study, stating, “The trial lasted 60 days, hardly enough time to see meaningful ageing changes.”
“The wash-up of all this is that most clinical trials to date are small, short-term, and often underpowered to detect meaningful clinical outcomes,” said Dr. Tim Crowe, a dietitian and nutrition researcher.
Expert Opinions and Future Research
Dr. Joanna Harnett, an associate professor of complementary medicine at the University of Sydney, announced that a study commencing in 2026 will explore whether increased NAD levels translate to improved health outcomes. Meanwhile, Dr. Ian Musgrave from the University of Adelaide expressed skepticism about the supplement’s benefits, stating it is “unlikely” to deliver significant health improvements.
Despite the TGA’s approval, which allows only general claims like “may assist with,” experts caution against viewing NMN as a panacea. Harnett emphasizes that terms like “health and wellbeing” are broad and encompass various factors, including diet, physical activity, and social connections.
“While NMN may play a role, it should not replace the fundamentals: a balanced diet, limiting ultra-processed foods, regular physical activity, maintaining social connections, and not smoking,” Harnett advises.
Implications for Consumers and the Supplement Market
The approval of NMN in Australia marks a new chapter for the supplement market, potentially setting a precedent for other countries considering similar regulations. For consumers, the decision underscores the importance of informed choices and the need to balance new supplements with proven health practices.
As NMN becomes available, it will be crucial for consumers to remain informed about ongoing research and to consult healthcare professionals when considering its use. The broader implications for the supplement industry may include increased scrutiny and demand for scientific validation of health claims.
In conclusion, while NMN’s approval is a step forward for those seeking anti-ageing solutions, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between science, regulation, and consumer expectations. As research continues, the true potential of NMN and similar supplements will become clearer, guiding future decisions in the realm of health and wellness.
