Aging is driven by several converging biological processes: declining growth hormone, falling NAD+ levels, increasing oxidative stress, and reduced cellular repair capacity. Most interventions address one of these. A well-designed protocol can address several simultaneously. Here is an overview of the compounds most relevant to healthy aging and what each one does.
The biological drivers of aging
Growth hormone production peaks in your 20s and declines at roughly 1 to 2 percent per year after that. By 50, most people have less than half the growth hormone they had at 25. NAD+ levels follow a similar curve. Oxidative stress accumulates as the body's antioxidant systems become less efficient. These are not inevitable parts of aging. They are addressable biological processes.
Compounds available through Tides
Sermorelin
Sermorelin stimulates the pituitary gland to produce more of the body's own growth hormone. It is the most commonly used compound for addressing the hormonal component of aging. Most people notice improved sleep quality first, followed by energy improvements and gradual body composition changes over three to six months.
NAD+
NAD+ is a coenzyme involved in cellular energy production, DNA repair, and the activation of sirtuin proteins linked to longevity. Levels decline significantly with age. Injectable NAD+ restores cellular energy capacity in ways that oral supplements cannot replicate due to poor bioavailability.
Glutathione
Glutathione is the body's primary antioxidant, produced in every cell. Production declines with age and chronic stress. Injectable glutathione helps neutralize oxidative stress, supports liver detoxification, and may support skin health and cellular resilience.
Methylene Blue
Methylene Blue supports mitochondrial energy production in brain cells and acts as a neuroprotective antioxidant in neural tissue. Cognitive aging (slower processing, reduced mental stamina, difficulty with focus) often becomes noticeable in the 40s and 50s. Methylene Blue is increasingly included in longevity protocols by people who want to address the neurological dimension of aging alongside the physical.
Lipo-C
Lipo-C combines lipotropic compounds and vitamin C to support the liver's fat metabolism pathways. Body composition tends to shift toward fat accumulation with age as growth hormone and metabolic efficiency decline. Lipo-C is often added to longevity protocols alongside Sermorelin for a more comprehensive approach to body composition and metabolic health.
Good to know: These compounds address different biological mechanisms and are often combined as part of a comprehensive longevity protocol. Your physician will determine which combination is appropriate for your goals and health history.
How they compare
| Compound | Primary mechanism | Timeline for effects |
|---|---|---|
| Sermorelin | GH stimulation | Sleep: 2 to 4 weeks. Body composition: 3 to 6 months. |
| NAD+ | Cellular energy and DNA repair | Energy and clarity: 2 to 4 weeks. |
| Glutathione | Antioxidant protection | Resilience and skin: 4 to 6 weeks. |
| Methylene Blue | Mitochondrial support in neurons | Cognitive clarity: 1 to 2 weeks. |
| Lipo-C | Lipotropic fat metabolism support | Body composition: 8 to 12 weeks. |
How to get started through Tides
Start with a short online health assessment. It takes about five minutes and covers your health history, goals, and current medications. A licensed physician from the Tides network reviews your information the same day.
If a protocol is clinically appropriate, your physician writes a prescription. Your medication is filled at a licensed U.S. compounding pharmacy and shipped directly to your door. No clinic visit, no waiting room, no referral needed.
Your subscription continues monthly. Your physician is available for check-ins throughout your protocol. You can pause or cancel anytime before your next billing cycle.
Realistic expectations
Weeks one to four: most people notice improved sleep quality and early energy improvements. Sermorelin's effect on sleep depth is often the first change people mention. NAD+ users frequently notice mental clarity and energy in this same window.
Weeks four to twelve: daytime energy, mood, and stress tolerance improve as the effects compound. Glutathione users typically notice resilience and early skin changes in this period. Methylene Blue users often notice more consistent cognitive performance.
Months three to six and beyond: body composition, skin quality, and physical recovery become more noticeable. Lipo-C and Sermorelin together tend to produce the most visible changes in this window. These are long-term protocols. Individual results vary. Consult your physician for personalized guidance.