N-acetylcysteine (NAC): Advantages, prescription, applications, and further insights

N-acetylcysteine (NAC): Advantages, administration doses, applications, and further insights

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a dietary supplement that has potential uses across various health conditions. Its alleged benefits range from enhancing athletic performance to managing blood sugar levels and assisting in the treatment of chronic lung diseases.

Medical professionals speculate that NAC may stimulate the synthesis of glutathione, a compound that aids in combating harmful free radicals, which can cause inflammation and cell damage.

This piece explores the potential advantages of NAC and the associated risks and side effects.

Uses and Advantages

Research has examined the potential utilization of NAC in addressing a broad range of health issues. Some studies suggest that NAC supplementation may offer the following benefits:

Psychological Conditions Treatment

Increasing NAC levels within the body may enhance neurotransmitter levels, potentially improving mental function.

A study suggests that NAC might alleviate symptoms associated with various psychological conditions, including:

Bipolar disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Schizophrenia

While the research on NAC as a method for relieving psychiatric symptoms appears promising, most doctors would not advocate for it as the sole treatment. Instead, relying on evidence-based treatments like therapy and medication is recommended whenever applicable. A doctor can provide advice on incorporating NAC as a supplement to traditional treatments.

Lung Conditions and Excess Mucus Management

Some doctors recommend NAC for individuals with chronic lung conditions, such as bronchitis or cystic fibrosis. It is available in an inhaled form that may help reduce excessive mucus production.

Although clinical trials on NAC as a lung disease treatment have yielded mixed results, according to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Insulin Sensitivity Improvement in People with PCOS

Researchers propose that taking NAC might benefit those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as it may assist in lowering high blood sugar levels.

This syndrome can lead to insulin resistance and increased blood sugar levels. The researchers reported evidence that NAC may help reduce blood sugar in individuals with PCOS. However, high-quality studies have not specifically examined this.

NAC should not be considered a substitute for medications such as insulin or other blood sugar control methods. It may only serve as a supplement.

Preterm Birth Risk Reduction

The same 2017 review suggests that NAC supplements may help decrease the risk of preterm birth.

Infections like bacterial vaginosis can increase the risk of preterm delivery, and the body's inflammatory response can further exacerbate this risk. Since NAC reduces inflammation, researchers suggest that it might help offset this risk factor for preterm birth.

The researchers refer to a study in which taking 0.6 grams of NAC per day, combined with progesterone after 16 weeks of pregnancy, helped prevent preterm delivery in individuals with a history of preterm delivery and bacterial vaginosis.

NAC may also have a similar effect when taken in combination with folic acid, according to the authors.

As always, it is crucial to consult a doctor before taking NAC during pregnancy.

Acetaminophen Overdose Treatment

Doctors can use NAC to treat acetaminophen overdoses. Acetaminophen is an over-the-counter pain reliever that can alleviate pain, fever, and inflammation. If an individual experiences an overdose of this drug, administering NAC within 8 hours may help mitigate associated liver damage.

Other Potential Advantages

Several studies indicate that NAC may help with:

Nail biting or skin picking
Addiction

Recent research has also shown that NAC inhibits SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Specifically, it has been shown to decrease a patient's need for mechanical ventilation and mortality. However, current evidence supporting these effects is limited.

NAC is available over the counter at pharmacies and health stores. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently evaluating whether dietary supplements should continue to contain NAC since it has already approved the substance as a drug.

N-acetylcysteine vs. L-cysteine

L-cysteine is an essential amino acid that the body can create on its own. NAC is derived from L-cysteine and is converted into it within the body. L-cysteine is then used to create glutathione, a peptide consisting of cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid.

Scientists believe that L-cysteine availability in the cell for glutathione production is crucial. Increasing L-cysteine availability can increase this rate. NAC may be less toxic and more soluble than L-cysteine itself, which is why it is commonly used in supplements instead of L-cysteine alone.

Dosage

A typical NAC dosage is 600-1,200 mg per day. However, individuals should consult with their physician to determine the appropriate use and dosage for themselves.

At least one clinical trial has investigated the potential for NAC to help children with OCD. However, current guidelines advise against administering NAC to children under the age of 12.

Your bodily system can transform NAC into l-cysteine. Alternatively, you can source l-cysteine from various food items that are high in protein.

Protein-packed options include:

salmon
chicken meat
dairy items, like cheese
eggs
nuts

Potential Risks

The side effects of NAC supplementation are generally mild and can include:

diarrhea
eye discomfort
fatigue
queasiness
a skin rash
vomiting

Seldom, more serious side effects may emerge, such as:

low blood pressure
asthma attacks
unexplained headaches

People currently on nitroglycerin medicines in pill, patch, or cream form should abstain from consuming NAC, as the combination could result in severely low blood pressure and headaches.

Conclusion

NAC serves as an antioxidant that might decrease inflammation. Utilizing it as a supplement could potentially alleviate symptoms of various medical conditions.

However, it's essential to bear in mind that most studies concerning NAC supplementation have been conducted on a limited scale. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the supplement's advantages will require additional research.

Anyone considering NAC supplements should first consult with a healthcare professional.

NAC can be bought online.

In light of the potential benefits of NAC, ongoing research is examining its role in predicting and managing certain health conditions. For instance, a study suggests that NAC might be beneficial in predicting and reducing the frequency of migraines, a common symptom associated with depression.

As the body synthesizes glutathione with the help of NAC, this compound aids in combating harmful free radicals, which can lead to inflammation and cell damage. This process could potentially play a role in managing depressive symptoms. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.