Also known as: N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine, Acetylcysteine
NAC is a stable, bioavailable form of the amino acid cysteine and the most efficient precursor to glutathione, the body's primary intracellular antioxidant. It is widely studied for respiratory, liver, and mental health support.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the sulfur-containing amino acid L-cysteine. It has been used in clinical medicine for decades as a mucolytic agent and as the standard antidote for acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose. NAC replenishes intracellular cysteine, the rate-limiting substrate for glutathione synthesis, thereby enhancing the body's antioxidant and detoxification capacity. Beyond its hepatoprotective effects, NAC modulates glutamatergic neurotransmission and has shown promise in psychiatric conditions including obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance use disorders. Its ability to break disulfide bonds in mucus glycoproteins also makes it an effective mucolytic for chronic respiratory conditions.
NAC provides cysteine, the rate-limiting amino acid for glutathione synthesis. Supplementation has been shown to increase erythrocyte and hepatic glutathione concentrations within days.
NAC breaks disulfide bonds in mucus, reducing viscosity and improving mucociliary clearance. Meta-analyses show reduced exacerbation frequency in COPD patients.
NAC is the clinical gold standard for acetaminophen toxicity and supports hepatic detoxification pathways via glutathione repletion.
On an empty stomach or between meals
Dividing into two doses of 600 mg may improve tolerability.
Split into 2–3 doses throughout the day
Higher doses used in COPD studies; consult a physician for chronic use above 1.200 mg.
Convenient daily supplementation
Respiratory and mucolytic use
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