N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC)
N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC)
Snapshot
N‑Acetyl‑Cysteine (NAC) is a precursor to the antioxidant glutathione, supporting detoxification, immune function, and respiratory health.
What is N‑Acetyl‑Cysteine?
NAC is the N‑acetylated form of the amino acid cysteine, enhancing its stability and bioavailability, and serving as a rate‑limiting substrate for glutathione synthesis.
Where It Comes From
Synthesized from cystine via acetylation in a laboratory setting; available as a white crystalline powder, capsules, or effervescent tablets.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Provides cysteine in a form that readily converts to intracellular glutathione (GSH), as well as exerting direct free‑radical scavenging activity and supporting sulfhydryl homeostasis.
Health Benefits
NAC replenishes glutathione stores, aiding liver detoxification; supports respiratory health by thinning mucus; modulates inflammation; and may protect against oxidative stress in various tissues.
Recommended Dosage
Typical doses range from 600 mg to 1,800 mg daily, divided into two or three servings; higher therapeutic doses (e.g., 2,400 mg) are used under medical supervision.
How to Use It
Take NAC with a full glass of water, preferably on an empty stomach to optimize absorption; avoid concurrent intake of activated charcoal which may bind NAC.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals seeking antioxidant support, those with compromised liver function or chronic respiratory conditions, and anyone undergoing detoxification protocols.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May interact with nitroglycerin and activated charcoal; high doses can cause nausea, vomiting, or rash; use caution in asthmatic individuals due to potential bronchospasm.
Final Thoughts
N‑Acetyl‑Cysteine is a versatile thiol supplement that bolsters the body’s primary antioxidant system, enhances detox pathways, and supports respiratory and immune health.
Scientific Studies
Atkuri KR, Mantovani JJ, Herzenberg LA, Herzenberg LA. N‑Acetylcysteine—a safe antidote for cysteine/glutathione deficiency. Curr Opin Pharmacol. 2007;7(4):355–359. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coph.2007.05.017
Samuni Y, Goldstein S, Dean OM, Berk M. The chemistry and biological activities of N‑acetylcysteine. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2013;1830(8):4117–4129. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbagen.2013.04.016
Zucker M, Aguilera A. A randomized trial of high‑dose NAC in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Chest. 2020;158(5):2261–2271. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chest.2020.06.038