A Regulatory Rollercoaster: How NMN Disappeared and Returned
For several years, NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) was popular as a precursor to NAD+. However, its market availability faced significant disruption starting in late 2022.
The 2022 FDA Exclusion
In November 2022, the FDA stated NMN could not be sold as a dietary supplement, citing the 'drug preclusion clause' of the FD&C Act. This clause prevents an ingredient authorized for drug investigation from being a dietary supplement. A company was investigating its form of NMN (MIB-626) as a drug, triggering this restriction. This regulatory move, not a safety concern, led platforms like Amazon to remove NMN products by March 2023.
The 2025 FDA Reversal
Industry groups like the Natural Products Association (NPA) challenged the FDA's decision through advocacy and legal action, including a lawsuit filed in August 2024. This led the FDA to reconsider, acknowledging NMN's sale as a supplement before any drug investigation began. On September 29, 2025, the FDA officially reversed its stance, confirming NMN is lawful for use in dietary supplements as the drug preclusion clause no longer applied.
Where to Find NMN and What to Look For
With NMN's status restored, it is expected to return to major marketplaces. Consumers should still prioritize quality.
Where to buy NMN now:
- Direct-to-consumer brands: Many brands sold NMN directly during the restriction and often emphasize quality.
- Specialty health retailers: These stores are reliable sources for quality NMN.
- International vendors: NMN has been available in countries with fewer restrictions, but consider shipping and import issues.
- Major online marketplaces: Following the 2025 reversal, platforms like Amazon are expected to relist NMN products.
Comparison Table: NMN vs. Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)
Both NMN and NR are NAD+ precursors with similar functions, but their market availability has differed.
| Feature | Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) | Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory Status (US, 2025) | Lawful dietary supplement due to FDA reversal | Always remained a lawful dietary supplement |
| Availability on Amazon | Briefly removed (2023-2025), now expected to return | Consistently available |
| Market History | Gained popularity, faced regulatory challenge; now resolved | Remained consistently available during NMN's regulatory issue |
| Cellular Uptake | Must be converted to NR before entering some cells | Enters cells directly and is converted to NMN |
| Consumer Perception | High-profile attention from longevity researchers (e.g., David Sinclair) | Considered a well-established and safer alternative during NMN's market absence |
The Quality Control Challenge
The return of NMN means consumers must be diligent about quality. The market can have subpar products. Look for products with independent third-party Certificates of Analysis (COAs) for purity and potency, and brands following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Conclusion
The absence of NMN was due to a regulatory issue, not safety concerns. The 2025 FDA reversal, driven by industry efforts, has restored its legal status. Consumers now have access again but must prioritize quality from reputable brands. This case shows the dynamic nature of supplement regulations and the impact of advocacy. For updates, follow industry bodies like the NPA.
Final Takeaway on NMN Availability
- Regulatory Victory: The FDA officially reversed its 2022 decision, confirming NMN is a lawful dietary supplement again.
- Not a Safety Issue: The prior restriction was a technicality related to drug investigations, not a safety concern.
- Expanded Access: NMN is expected to return to major retailers like Amazon after its removal in 2023.
- Buyer Beware: Prioritize brands with transparent sourcing, third-party testing, and GMP-certified manufacturing.
- Alternatives Exist: For those hesitant, NAD+ precursors like nicotinamide riboside (NR) offer a similar, consistently available alternative.
What's Next for the Supplement Market
The NMN ruling is a significant event for the supplement industry, showing advocacy can reverse decisions. It offers consumers more choice but highlights the need for vigilance in product selection. While new longevity supplements will emerge, the NMN story is a key example of regulatory change.
A Final Word on Research
Research on NMN's long-term effects is ongoing. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement. This ensures informed decisions for your health.
