Ana Aleksic

2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Evidence BasedThis post has 142 references 4.6/5 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) Medically reviewed by Jonathan Ritter, PharmD, PhD (Pharmacology), Puya Yazdi, MD | Written by Ana Aleksic, MSc (Pharmacy) | Last updated: October 7, 2020 CONTENTS NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is an antioxidant with numerous potential health bene ts. It may help with mood disorders, sleep, infections, and in ammation. It boosts glutathione levels and helps with most states of increased oxidative stress that underlie chronic health problems. Read on to uncover all its bene ts, along with dosage and side e ects. What is NAC? https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 1/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Your body uses N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) to make its own antioxidants. Medically, it is used to treat acetaminophen toxicity; it is almost 100% e ective as long as it’s given within the rst eight hours after overdose [1, 2]. For all other purposes, NAC is an unapproved supplement. Preliminary evidence may look promising (and in some cases, very promising!), but future studies may nd that NAC is actually ine ective for some of these purposes. It’s important to talk to your doctor before adding NAC to your health strategies, as it may have unexpected interactions. Snapshot Proponents: Powerful antioxidant Provides the building blocks for glutathione May protect the lungs, gut, brain, liver, and kidneys May defend against toxins and pollutants May help prevent the u Bio lm disruptor Potential to improve fertility May help with many chronic health problems Skeptics: Doesn’t taste good and can cause nausea May a ect bleeding Many purported bene ts are unproven Potential Benefits of N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) Note that in the list below, acetaminophen toxicity is the only FDA-approved use of NAC. If you suspect that you or someone you know has overdosed on acetaminophen, call poison control and seek medical attention immediately. Do not attempt to selfadminister NAC. If you want to incorporate NAC into your daily health routine, talk to your doctor rst. They can help you identify any unexpected interactions with your existing medical prescriptions and other health strategies. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 2/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Though the preliminary evidence for many of these potential bene ts is promising, no usage of NAC is FDA-approved except for treatment of acetaminophen toxicity. Effective For 1) Emergency Medicine NAC has been studied a lot in the intensive care units, as a possible way to reduce organ damage before and after surgery. It helped protect the livers of 70 patients with lung disease, when given shortly before heart surgery [3]. It could help with heart attack complications, assisted breathing, abdominal surgery, and pancreatitis when used in the emergency case, before or after surgery [4, 5, 6, 7]. Advertisement Get the Regimen of A Top Biohacker Preparing His Body to Fight Coronavirus Joe Cohen is well-known for his work as a successful entrepreneur in the health eld after he overcame his many health issues using a personalized regimen. Find out exactly which supplements he takes and what lifestyle changes Joe has made to maintain optimal health and prepare his body to ght o infections. Enter your email GET THE REGIMEN Advertisement Get the Regimen of A Top Biohacker Preparing His Body to Fight Coronavirus Joe Cohen is well-known for his work as a successful entrepreneur in the health eld after he overcame his many health issues using a personalized regimen. Find out exactly which supplements he takes and what lifestyle changes Joe has made to maintain optimal health and prepare his body to ght o infections. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 3/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Enter your email GET THE REGIMEN Liver Damage from Acetaminophen Toxicity N-Acetyl Cysteine has been used as an antidote to acetaminophen poisoning for over 50 years. It is almost 100% e ective as long as it’s given within the rst eight hours after overdose [2]. Common painkillers (such as Tylenol) contain acetaminophen, which can damage the liver and even cause liver failure at high doses. Acetaminophen is the most common cause of serious, sudden liver damage [8, 9]. NAC can safely prevent serious liver damage from acetaminophen and increase survival, according to several studies of over 400 patients [8, 10]. Sudden, life-threatening liver damage can also be caused by various drugs, toxins, or hepatitis. NAC helped protect the liver in 80 such cases. Patients with liver damage from drugs experienced the best results [11]. NAC has been studied a lot in intensive care units, as a possible way to reduce organ damage before and after surgery [3]. Emergency medicine relies on NAC to treat acetaminophen toxicity and for preventing organ damage before or after surgery. Possibly Effective For 2) Detox By increasing levels of glutathione and combating oxidative stress, NAC may help protect the body from various toxins and pollutants. Heavy Metals https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 4/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked According to some studies, NAC may be a safe remedy for chronic lead toxicity. It reduced lead levels and increased antioxidant enzymes in red and white blood cells in 171 workers exposed to lead after 3 months [12, 13]. The combination of NAC and zinc could also protect from mercury toxicity in rats, preventing the accumulation of mercury in the liver and blood. Clinical studies would need to con rm this e ect [14]. Pesticides NAC could help with pesticide poisoning by enhancing detox. NAC given to 30 people su ering from pesticide poisoning increased glutathione and reduced the need for additional treatments [15, 16]. NAC also reduced the damage from a very toxic pesticide (aluminum phosphide) in one study. It shortened the hospital stay, improved breathing, and increased survival in people exposed to these pesticides [17]. Diesel Fuel Exposure to diesel fuel can cause serious blood vessel damage, even in healthy people. Taking NAC with vitamin C before diesel fuel exposure protected the blood vessels in one study of 21 people [18]. Diesel fumes can also cause breathing problems and worsen asthma. NAC over 6 days protected the airways and improved asthmatic symptoms in 26 people exposed to diesel, reducing their need for asthma medications [19]. Silica Silica is often found on construction sites and in agriculture. It can cause serious lung damage. In 96 people exposed to silica, NAC combined with an anti-in ammatory improved lung function, coughing, pain, and congestion [20]. Chemical Warfare NAC improved breathing, cough, congestion, and lung function in 144 people with poisoning from a chemical warfare agent (mustard gas) [21]. Deadly Mushrooms https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 5/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked NAC could be a lifesaver in people who accidentally ingest Death Cap, the number one cause of fatal mushroom poisoning worldwide. When added to an anti-poisoning protocol, it boosted recovery and prevented liver failure [22]. Thanks to its potent antioxidant e ects, some believe that NAC may be able to reverse the damage caused by heavy metals, pesticides, diesel fuel, silica, chemical warfare, deadly mushrooms, and other poisons. Chemotherapy and X-Rays Cisplatin is common chemotherapy that can damage the ears and kidneys. NAC ear injections prevented cisplatin damage and protected the ears in a study of 84 people [23]. NAC infusions also reduced mouth ulcers and in ammation from chemotherapy in 80 people with leukemia [24]. Oral NAC protected from the side e ects of chemotherapy on the brain in 14 people with colon cancer [25]. NAC and other antioxidants may prevent from x-ray radiation used to diagnose bone cancers. Combined with vitamin C, lipoic acid, and beta-carotene, NAC protected 5 people from x-ray scanner damage in one study [26]. One study determined that even high intravenous doses of NAC were safe in 28 people with kidney damage caused by chemotherapy [27]. In some studies, NAC reduced the side e ects of chemotherapy and diagnostic X-rays, possibly by preventing free-radical damage. 3) Lung Disease COPD NAC is commonly used to reduce the in ammation and mucus in people with lung disease, such as chronic bronchitis or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It can break down mucus and replenish glutathione in the lungs, which reduces airway damage and breathing di culties [28]. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 6/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked According to a large review, NAC improved symptoms and prevented disease worsening in people with chronic bronchitis with no side e ects. It needed to be taken for at least 3 – 6 months, as 2 months of NAC did not improve COPD in one study [28, 29]. Combined with vitamin C, NAC increased the antioxidant and nutritional status in 79 people with COPD [30]. High doses over 1 year were safe and improved lung capacity and breathing in people with COPD in another study [31]. NAC has also been given alongside oxygen, the typical COPD treatment. In 45 patients, it could prevent oxidative damage that can result from long-term oxygen treatment [32]. People with chronic bronchitis or COPD have bene ted from long-term NAC supplementation; it is believed to improve lung function, prevent disease worsening, and soften mucus. Lung Damage and Infections NAC does not appear to have the same respiratory bene ts in people with lung scarring or lung infections. It had mixed e ects on lung damage in two studies of 151 patients with a lung-scarring disease. In a smaller study of 28 patients, inhaled NAC could help those with milder forms of the disease. Oral NAC did not have the same bene ts in the larger study [33, 34]. Short-term, NAC increased the level of vitamin C and antioxidant status in patients with a lung infection and scarring but didn’t improve lung function. It was given only for 30 days, which is probably not long enough to impact tissue regeneration [35]. Inhaled NAC also helped with airway infections in a study of 100 small children [36]. NAC had a mild bene cial e ect on lung scarring and infections in multiple studies. Inhalation was more e cient than oral consumption. Insufficient Evidence For https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 7/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked The following purported bene ts are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. There is insu cient evidence to support the use of NAC for any of the below-listed uses. Remember to speak with a doctor before taking NAC, and never use it in place of something your doctor recommends or prescribes. 4) Liver Health NAC boosts glutathione, the highest amount of which is in the liver. This is why NAC is under investigation for its potential to protect the liver from in ammation, drug poisoning, and serious liver diseases. If the liver is damaged, in ammation and oxidative stress always rise. There is some evidence that NAC may protect the liver by reducing in ammation and increasing antioxidant reserves. NAC reduced liver damage in 86% of all cases, according to a study of 69 patients. It could protect the liver from factors such as excessive alcohol and environmental pollutants [37]. NAC injections helped increase liver function better than glutathione in one study of 75 patients with Hepatitis B [38]. NAC helped repair severe liver damage and enhance liver detox. It increased glutathione in the liver and helped to prevent oxidative liver damage from toxins, drugs, and infections. 5) Oxidative Stress In several studies, NAC increased antioxidant status after just 8 days. It also raised the levels and activity of glutathione and reduced oxidative damage markers by more than 30% [39, 40]. Excessive oxidative stress can damage cells and underlies many chronic diseases, malnutrition, and toxin exposure. By replenishing glutathione, NAC may be able to protect cells and organs that are under oxidative attack [41]. NAC also increased red blood cells and markers of their function and size (erythropoietin, hemoglobin, hematocrit, MCV) [39, 40]. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 8/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked NAC vs. Glutathione Oral glutathione has poor bioavailability, and taking NAC is considered one potential way to circumvent this problem. NAC increased glutathione levels and other antioxidants better than glutathione supplements when taken orally in a study of 20 people. But sublingual glutathione (which is not widely available) had stronger e ects than either NAC or oral glutathione after 3 weeks [42]. In addition, liposomal glutathione is e ective at raising bodily levels of glutathione. As of the publication of this article, no studies have been done comparing the bioavailability of NAC and liposomal glutathione [42]. NAC protected various tissues against free radicals, possibly by boosting glutathione and other antioxidants. It has better absorption and e cacy than oral glutathione supplements. 6) Flu Since NAC decreases the body’s in ammatory response, some researchers believe that it may help prevent the u or reduce symptoms of a common cold. In one study of 262 older people, NAC cut the risk of catching the u by 54%. It could be especially helpful in the winter months when the u season takes a hold [43]. NAC is also sometimes added as a complement to standard treatments of sinus in ammation and infections [44, 45]. In cells, NAC reduced replication of the u virus. If the virus can’t replicate quickly, it’s easier to ght it o [46]. Doctors may sometimes add NAC to standard treatments of the u and other respiratory infections. This is believed to prevent virus spreading and reduce the likelihood of catching the u. 7) Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Clomiphene citrate is considered the gold standard for helping women with PCOS achieve ovulation, but more than half of women don’t respond to it. NAC is being https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 9/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked researched as a potential alternative or complementary approach, but the studies so far have mixed results [47]. In the largest study of NAC in 150 women with PCOS who previously didn’t respond to treatments, NAC added to clomiphene citrate improved ovulation and pregnancy rates after just 5 days. Another study of over 100 women con rmed this [48, 49]. In 60 women with PCOS, NAC improved the quality of egg cells. It also increased embryo health during in vitro fertilization [50]. Women with PCOS often su er from weight gain. NAC could improve metabolic symptoms in 46 women with PCOS better than metformin (an anti-diabetic drug). It helped reduce [51]: Blood lipids Fasting glucose Insulin NAC had similar bene ts to metformin in a study of 100 women with PCOS. It reduced high testosterone, high insulin, irregular cycles, and BMI after 6 months. Unlike metformin, NAC also lowered total and LDL cholesterol [52]. NAC improved insulin sensitivity in another study of 31 women with PCOS over 5 – 6 weeks [53]. NAC alone did not help women with hard-to-treat PCOS in other studies. It possibly works better when combined with the standard drugs than when used as a stand-alone [47]. When added to standard treatment, NAC helped some women with PCOS by improving their fertility, lipid pro le, and blood sugar control. 8) Male Fertility Aside from helping women with PCOS, antioxidant therapies like NAC may increase fertility in men [54]. Oxidative stress can damage the sperm’s DNA, which reduces fertility [55]. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 10/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked In 120 infertile men, NAC improved semen quality and antioxidant status after 3 months [56]. Some studies looked at the fertility bene ts of NAC with other antioxidants, such as B vitamins, vitamin C and D. This combination improved the sperm count in those with low sperm count in a study of 42 men [57]. In a large study of almost 500 infertile men, NAC with selenium improved semen quality after 6 months [58]. Some men are “subfertile,” meaning that they’re less fertile than average without an obvious underlying cause. In 84 such men trying to conceive, a supplement combination with NAC (plus vitamins, zinc, g extract, and vitamin E) increased their “fertility potential” and pregnancy rates [55]. The typical NAC dosage for improving fertility in these studies was 600 mg/day, but remember that there is no “correct” dosage of NAC for this purpose, as no studies have been conducted to nd one. NAC, in combination with other antioxidants, has boosted sperm count, sperm quality, and fertility in men. 9) Hearing Loss According to a few studies, NAC may protect the ears from noise-induced hearing loss. NAC helped 35 people regain hearing after experiencing sudden deafness. In almost 600 soldiers who were at high risk for hearing loss, NAC slightly reduced ear damage [59, 60]. It also protected 48 textile-industry workers from hearing loss after 2 weeks [61]. But in one study of 31 people, NAC taken before listening to loud music in a nightclub had no protective e ect [62]. NAC may also help with ear in ammation. It improved the symptoms in 90 children with middle ear in ammation but had a stronger e ect when combined with antibiotics [63]. NAC prevented noise-induced hearing loss and soothed ear in ammation in some studies. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 11/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked 10) Antibiotic Side Effects Antibiotic side e ects can arise from oxidative stress. As a strong antioxidant, NAC prevented kidney and ear damage from several strong antibiotics in two studies of 100 people [64, 65]. NAC also protected the liver from the harmful e ects of anti-tuberculosis drugs in 60 patients. Those who took NAC had intact livers after treatment, while 40% of those who didn’t take NAC su ered liver damage [66]. NAC has reversed oxidative damage in the liver, kidney, and ears caused by antibiotics and anti-tuberculosis drugs. 11) Homocysteine and Heart Disease B vitamins somewhat help reduce high homocysteine. On the other hand, in one study, NAC lowered both homocysteine and high blood pressure, which helps prevent heart disease and other chronic conditions [67]. In two studies of 82 men, oral NAC lowered homocysteine and blood pressure while increasing antioxidant status over 4 weeks [67]. In another study of 60 people with heart disease, NAC lowered homocysteine levels and improved blood vessel health over 2 months [68]. NAC lowered homocysteine and high blood pressure and strengthened blood vessels, suggesting a potential role in heart disease prevention. 12) Sleep Apnea NAC improved sleep, reduced apnea and snoring in one study of 20 people with Obstructive Sleep Apnea after a month. Long-term, it may reduce the need for continuous positive airway pressure therapy [69]. 13) Skin Health https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 12/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked NAC-containing creams or gels may improve skin health. NAC can boost glutathione in the skin, protecting it from damage. It can also reduce skin in ammation and normalize skin cell division. People use it for eczema, skin irritation, radiation-induced skin damage, wound healing, and acne. In one study of 100 people, a 5% NAC gel helped reduce mild to moderate acne [70]. Case reports and animal studies support a range of skin bene ts of NAC. Overall, NAC skin formulations are promising and very safe, although larger studies are harder to nd [71]. Creams and gels with NAC are believed to help with acne, eczema, and wound healing, but the available research is scarce. 14) Exercise Performance In Athletes In one study NAC supplementation improved demanding cycling performance in 10 athletes after 9 days. It increased their antioxidant capacity, physical performance, and muscle recovery [72]. But in one study of 80 men, NAC taken before exercise didn’t increase endurance or muscle blood ow [73]. One study concluded that NAC can alter the energy balance in muscles and hinder muscle repair. When given to 10 men after intense exercise, it lowered in ammation in the muscles but at the same time slowed down muscle recovery after 8 days [74]. And in another, NAC worsened performance and decreased power output during HIIT training in 9 athletes [75]. In a study of 12 men, NAC improved exercise performance after 6 days [76]. Muscle Fatigue & In ammation In several studies of 16 people in total, NAC infusions given before intense exercise reduced post-exercise muscle fatigue [77, 78]. NAC could help maintain high levels of the anti-in ammatory IL-10 even a week after exercising in 29 people [79]. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 13/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Power Training NAC could reduce muscle fatigue in exercises that demanded only 80% muscle power, while it wasn’t bene cial for high-power training in 7 men [80]. NAC increased glutathione and blood cysteine in several studies in healthy people, which was linked to improved strength, endurance, and exercise performance [81, 82]. Inactive or Elderly People NAC taken for a week before exercising could speed up muscle repair and increase blood ow to the muscles in a study of 29 sedentary men [83]. NAC also increased muscle strength in older people whose antioxidant levels are low. It also reduced TNF-alpha, an in ammatory marker [84]. NAC may improve blood ow and muscle in ammation during short-term intense exercise, but it may be detrimental to muscle recovery after exercise in the long run. 15) Anemia In 61 people with thalassemia, an “antioxidant cocktail” containing NAC with curcuminoids or vitamin E improved anemia and hemoglobin levels after 4 months. NAC had similar bene ts in 75 children with thalassemia, while also reducing DNA damage [85]. It also improved blood markers and antioxidant levels in 11 people with sickle cell anemia [86]. NAC combined with oxygen increased erythropoietin production in 38 healthy people, which would also be bene cial for those with anemia [87]. NAC has boosted hemoglobin and red blood cell production in people with di erent types of anemia. 16) Pain and Inflammation NAC alleviated pain in a study of 146 people over 2 years, especially in those with poor circulation. The participants took 1,200 mg NAC daily [88]. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 14/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked NAC (1,200 mg/day) reduced in ammatory markers such as CRP and IL-6 in a study of 24 people with kidney disease. Given to 15 patients with severe burns, NAC reduced oxidative damage, increased antioxidant protection, and reduced in ammatory markers [89, 90]. But it had no e ect on kidney in ammation in kids nor on leg cramps [91, 92]. NAC reduced neuropathic pain in rats by blocking an important in ammatory pathway: matrix metalloproteinases [93]. In cells, NAC targeted the same pathway as common anti-in ammatory painkillers: COX-2 [94]. NAC reduced pain and in ammation of di erent origins, including kidney disease, injuries, and severe burns 17) Diabetes NAC may reduce insulin resistance thanks to its antioxidant e ects. Plus, people with type 2 diabetes may have lower glutathione levels that NAC can replenish [95]. In one study of 14 diabetic patients, NAC (1,200 mg daily for one week) increased glutathione in platelets and normalized their activity, which could protect from heart disease in type 2 diabetes [96]. When given to 128 people before a high-fat meal, NAC helped maintain antioxidants and blood vessel health. It reduced oxidative stress, which was very noticeable in people with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance [97]. Animal studies speak to its bene ts, too. NAC prevented mice fed a high-fat diet from gaining excessive weight and symptoms of insulin resistance [98]. NAC provided antioxidant support and improved blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. 18) Parkinson’s Disease https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 15/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Some research has suggested that NAC may protect the brain in people with Parkinson’s Disease. In one clinical study, it improved the activity of dopamine neurons, which are incredibly important in this disease [99]. NAC also increased glutathione levels in the brains of 3 people with Parkinson’s Disease [100]. 19) Heart Health In almost 100 patients who had heart attacks, NAC accelerated short-term recovery. In the longer term, some researchers believe it may improve heart health and reduce complications [101]. Oxidative damage is one of the underlying causes of heart disease. NAC prevented heart damage in mice with diabetes [102]. It also reduced heart damage in rats with chronic heart failure, while also improving fatigue and exercise tolerance [103]. Serious heart arrhythmias are also linked to oxidative stress. In blood taken from patients, those who took NAC had higher antioxidants and reduced in ammation [104]. Possibly by scavenging free radicals, NAC has repaired heart damage in humans and animals, but the clinical evidence is relatively weak. 20) Bone Health In 21 women who recently went through menopause, NAC strengthened the bones when added to a vitamin D and calcium supplements. They used it safely for over 3 months [105]. In rats, NAC enhanced bone growth, mineralization, and regeneration while also boosting collagen [106, 107]. 21) Ulcers and H. pylori . pylori is the most common cause of ulcers. NAC enhanced the e ects of H. pylori treatment in one study of under 100 people. In another one (60 patients), it helped antibiotics penetrate to the site of infection [108, 109]. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 16/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked NAC may play a role in overcoming antibiotic resistance by destroying bio lms. NAC increased the sensitivity of H. pylori to antibiotics by disrupting bio lms in a study of 40 people. It could be given before antibiotics to boost their e ect [110]. NAC has ampli ed the e ects of antibiotics on H. pylori infection and thus helped with stomach ulcers. 22) Gut Health and SIBO As a powerful antioxidant, NAC can help protect the gut and reduce small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Gastric re ux, or heartburn, is alarmingly common. In 90 people with gastric re ux (GERD), NAC improved most symptoms after 3 months when added to standard PPI drugs [111]. PPIs can often cause SIBO as they increase the gut pH, making it more hospitable for bacteria. Several strains of antibiotics combined with NAC can reverse the condition. Once reversed, NAC and probiotics restored the gut barrier and prevented SIBO in the long run [112]. NAC also reduced gut in ammation In 37 people with colitis, helping to reduce in ammatory substances like IL-8 [113]. In rats, it could also reduce leaky gut, helping to strengthen the intestinal barrier and boost antioxidant defense [114]. NAC helped relieve heartburn and stopped bacterial overgrowth caused by acid re ux drugs. 23) Brain and Spine Injuries NAC could reduce the e ects of traumatic brain injuries during combat, according to a study of 81 US soldiers [115]. It can cross the blood-brain barrier in children with traumatic brain injuries without side e ects [116]. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 17/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked In pregnant women with vaginal infections, NAC could protect their fetuses from harmful e ects on the brain [117]. In rats, NAC could protect from spinal and brain trauma and restore energy balance in the cells [118, 119]. NAC has helped in brain or spinal trauma recovery and reduced oxidative damage from various stressors. 24) Kidney Injury & Failure Oxidative stress can cause kidney failure in severe cases, and NAC was able to prevent this in rats [120]. At least 30 clinical studies have looked at the protective e ects of NAC in kidney injury, before or after kidney surgery, and thyroid problems in kidney disease. Most of the studies have shown positive results, which brings NAC into sharp relief as a potential treatment for severe cases of kidney disease [121, 122, 123, 3, 124, 125, 126]. When used in serious diseases and to reduce organ damage, NAC is usually given as an infusion or injection. In various clinical studies, injected NAC prevented kidney failure in cases of surgery, trauma, and thyroid disorders. 25) Gum Health In a study of 33 people, NAC reduced gum bleeding after surgery [127]. 26) Mountain Sickness NAC helped with mountain sickness in one study in 84 people living in very high altitudes in Peru (over 4,000m). It did not work better than the standard drug, acetazolamide, however [128]. 27) Cystic Fibrosis https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 18/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked NAC reduced in ammation and increased antioxidants in 18 glutathione-de cient women with cystic brosis [129]. The short-term e ects are not that evident, but long-term NAC use may be more bene cial [130]. 28) In Pregnancy There is not enough research to claim whether NAC is safe in pregnancy, so we advise against taking it if you are pregnant. If you want to incorporate NAC into your health strategies while you are pregnant, make sure you talk to your doctor rst. A combination of NAC and folic acid helped prevent unexplained pregnancy loss in 80 women. In 29 pregnant women low antioxidant status, NAC in combination with other antioxidants improved pregnancy outcomes [131, 132]. NAC could protect the fetus from a brain injury caused by the mother’s bacterial infection. It also helped prevent preterm births in 280 women with vaginal infections [133, 117]. NAC is currently being studied for potential bene ts during pregnancy, but due to a lack of safety data, pregnant women are advised not to take NAC before consulting their doctor. 29) Dry Eyes Just one application of NAC eye drops helped improve dry eye symptoms in a study of 38 people. The eye drops contained NAC bound to chitosan (chitosan-NAC) [134]. A 5% NAC cream worked as well as the typical steroid cream in 20 people with dry eye syndrome. It improved burning, itching, and blurry vision after a month. It was also much more e ective than arti cial tears in another study of 20 people with dry eyes [135, 136]. Creams and eye drops with NAC have reduced itching and other symptoms of dry eyes. Animal & Cell Research (Lacking Evidence) https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 19/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked No clinical evidence supports the use of NAC for any of the conditions listed in this section. Below is a summary of the existing animal and cell-based research, which should guide further investigational e orts. However, the studies listed below should not be interpreted as supportive of any health bene t. 30) ALS Oxidative stress plays a role in diseases like ALS, and NAC o ers some hope for ALS patients. But so far, it only prevented ALS-like degeneration of brain cells [137]. Cancer Research NAC showed anti-cancer activity in cellular and tissue studies [138, 139, 140]. It also prevented oxidative DNA damage from radiation in animals [141]. In one study of 25 women who had cancer and were in remission, NAC helped rebalance hormone levels [142]. Animal and cell studies indicate the anti-cancer potential of NAC, but no clinical trials have con rmed this yet. Further Reading What is NAC? Side E ects, Dosage, Mechanism, Reviews NAC for Mental Health, OCD, Anxiety & Depression Can NAC Help Fight Coronavirus? Takeaway N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a common supplemental form of the amino acid cysteine. The human body uses it to produce antioxidants, and emergency responders and doctors use it to prevent acetaminophen poisoning. NAC is believed to help with other types of detoxi cation as well, from heavy metals to pesticides to chemotherapy side e ects. Other research suggests that it may help with lung diseases and damage from COPD and infection. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 20/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Researchers are currently investigating whether NAC could be helpful in many other contexts. Limited clinical evidence suggests a potential role in liver health, immune function, PCOS, fertility, heart disease, exercise performance, diabetes, and more. Advertisement Avoid Illness By Using the Best Supplements For Your Body Ever try supplements that don’t seem to work? People respond di erently to diets and supplements because everyone has unique DNA. SelfDecode provides recommendations that are personalized based on YOUR genes to help you stay healthy and avoid infections from viruses like COVID-19! Analyze My Genes About the Author https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 21/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked Ana Aleksic MSC (PHARMACY) Ana received her MS in Pharmacy from the University of Belgrade. Ana has many years of experience in clinical research and health advising. She loves communicating science and empowering people to achieve their optimal health. Ana spent years working with patients who su er from various mental health issues and chronic health problems. She is a strong advocate of integrating scienti c knowledge and holistic medicine. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 22/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked RATE THIS ARTICLE FDA Compliance The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. Information is shared for educational purposes only. You must consult your doctor before acting on any content on this website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 23/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked LOAD COMMENTS Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Required elds are marked * Comment Name * Email * Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. POST COMMENT This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 24/27 2/10/2021 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked JOE COHEN, CEO About Joe Joe Cohen won the genetic lottery of bad genes. As a kid, he su ered from in ammation, brain fog, fatigue, digestive problems, anxiety, depression, and other issues that were poorly understood in both conventional and alternative medicine. Read More Related Articles VIEW ALL 0 Blood Tests Organic Acid Test (OAT): Detoxi cation and Oxalates 0 Blood Tests TIBC Blood Test: Normal Range, High & Low Levels Drugs 1 Vyvanse: Uses, Side E ects, & More https://selfhacked.com/blog/nac-top-43-science-based-health-benefits-n-acetyl-cysteine-nac/ 25/27 2/10/2021 y a se: Uses, S de ects, & 29 NAC Benefits & Uses (N-Acetyl Cysteine) - SelfHacked oe SelfHacked Partner Solutions What do your genes tell you about your health? Align your health hacks with your genes for optimal health & cognitive function. CHECK OUT SELFDECODE NOW Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Sel acked LLC does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See additional information. 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