What is NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)?
What is N-acetyl cysteine (NAC)?
N-acetyl cysteine, or NAC for short, is a form of cysteine, an essential amino acid needed for protein synthesis in the body. A growing number of people are turning to NAC supplements to support their health and wellness goals.
Benefits of NAC
NAC has been linked to a range of health benefits. Let’s delve into some of the potential NAC benefits in more detail.
NAC is Important for Making Glutathione, a Mighty Antioxidant
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) works by boosting levels of an essential antioxidant, glutathione. Here’s how it works:
- NAC as a Precursor: NAC is a modified form of the amino acid L-cysteine. It helps the body produce glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage. 1
- Crossing Cell Membranes: Unlike glutathione, NAC can easily pass through cell membranes. Once inside the cell, NAC is converted into cysteine, which is then used to make glutathione. 1
- Fights Cellular Damage: Reactive oxygen species (ROS), like hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl radicals, can decrease glutathione levels and cause cell damage. This damage can contribute to aging and various health issues. NAC helps replenish glutathione, which in turn protects cells from the harmful effects of ROS.1
Having low levels of glutathione has been associated with a range of health concerns.2
NAC for Liver Detox: Powerful Antidote
NAC works by increasing glutathione in the liver, helping to support the liver's processing and elimination of toxins.
NAC for Lungs: Supports Healthy Breathing
NAC may reduce common respiratory issues by thinning mucus and boosting glutathione levels. It’s also beneficial for helping to clear mucus and supporting healthy airways.
NAC Supports Whole-Body Wellness
NAC may lessen the production of substances in the body that drive cellular changes that occur with advancing age.4
By supplementing your antioxidant intake, NAC may provide support to stay stronger longer.
NAC May Help Protect Brain Cells
Oxidative stress plays a role in various aspects of brain health.
By reducing oxidative stress, NAC can help support healthy cognitive function.5
NAC May Strengthen Your Gut
By boosting the production of glutathione, NAC may support gastrointestinal health. Studies show that NAC may protect the lining of the stomach (gastric mucosa), which may promote normal balance of healthy gut flora.4
NAC May Help Support Mental Wellbeing
NAC supplement benefits may include support for mental and behavioral health. NAC helps regulate the levels of the brain chemical glutamate, which has been shown to improve support mental well-being.4 Studies suggest that NAC may support mental and emotional wellness.4,6
One study found that NAC may help promote positive mood.7 But more research is needed to learn about NAC for mental health.
NAC May Support Immune Health
NAC may support your body’s natural immune defenses by raising glutathione levels in cells that help protect against invaders.8 NAC also helps maintain healthy respiratory function.
A clinical study suggests that NAC promotes seasonal wellness. This supplement may offer an extra boost when you need it the most.8
NAC May Help Protect Nerve Health
NAC offers protection against the damaging effects of oxidative stress. The results of clinical studies suggest that NAC may help support nerve health in some people.9
Supplementing NAC may support healthy nerve function. This benefit can help keep your hands busy and your feet moving to the beat.
Types of NAC
NAC is available as a dietary supplement. It has a few different names—NAC, N-acetyl cysteine, or N-acetyl L-cysteine. The following types of NAC supplements are available over the counter:
- NAC Capsules, such as Swanson NAC: Oral capsules are popular NAC supplements. Each capsule provides 500 milligrams (mg) to 1,000 mg of NAC, depending on the brand. The typical NAC supplement dosage ranges from one to three capsules per day.
- NAC Tablets: Oral NAC tablets are available, some with a special coating for easier swallowing. The dosage of NAC tablets is similar to that of capsules.
- NAC Powders: NAC powders dissolve in water and may be the best NAC supplement choice for people with trouble swallowing pills.
NAC supplements are generally well-tolerated. While not a complete list, the following side effects are possible:3
Potential Side Effects of NAC
Stomach Upset
NAC supplement side effects may cause stomach upset, such as nausea, vomiting, indigestion, or diarrhea. NAC may have an unpleasant odor and taste that contributes to nausea and vomiting.
Dry Mouth
NAC may cause dry mouth. Drinking plenty of water may help.
Bleeding
NAC may raise the risk of bruising or bleeding, especially if taken with blood thinner medications.* NAC is not recommended for those with bleeding disorders or upcoming surgery.
*Contact your healthcare professional for advice if you take any other medications.
Bottom Line
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) helps increase the amount of the antioxidant glutathione in your cells. Low glutathione levels are linked to various health concerns. Boosting glutathione with a NAC supplement can help maintain wellness and vitality.
You be well, now.
Swanson
This article has been medically reviewed and accepted.
About Patricia Weiser, PharmD
Patricia Weiser, PharmD, is a Pennsylvania-licensed pharmacist and independent medical writer with over 14 years of experience in community and hospital pharmacy. She is dedicated to creating evidence-based health content that empowers individuals to take an active role in their healthcare. Areas of expertise include dietary supplements, over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, vaccines, weight loss, cancer, eye care, and more. She has a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Pittsburgh.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources
- Interpreting the mechanism of action of N-acetylcysteine in tumor and immune cells. Redox biology. Read source
- A review of dietary (phyto) nutrients for glutathione support. Nutrients. Read source
- N-acetylcysteine. National Library of Medicine. Read source
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC): Impacts on Human Health. Antioxidants (Basel). Read source
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in neurological disorders: Mechanisms of action and therapeutic opportunities. Brain and behavior. Read source
- A randomized controlled pilot trial of oral N-acetylcysteine in children with autism. Biological psychiatry. Read source
- N-acetyl cysteine for depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder--a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. Biological psychiatry. Read source
- N-acetylcysteine: A review of clinical usefulness (an old drug with new tricks). Journal of nutrition and metabolism. Read source
- A review on various uses of n-acetyl cysteine. Cell Journal. Read source
