TREATMENT DATABASE

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a derivative of cysteine, an amino acid. It acts as an antioxidant, and is a precursor to glutathione. Clinically, it has been used to treat acetaminophen (paracetamol in Britain) overdose. It has also been used to reduce the viscosity of mucus in pulmonary conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, emphysema and tuberculosis. NAC is commonly used in patients with renal impairment. It is being explored as a possible treatment for both schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. NAC's ability to counteract glutamate hyperactivity in the brain also make it a good candidate for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder. NAC is also a chelating agent for mercury, and can be used for mercury toxicity.

USES IN ME/CFS. In a 1994 study, results showed that pre-treatment with NAC improved performance of muscles during exercise. The researchers suggested that “oxidative stress plays a causal role in the fatigue process” and that NAC “may be useful clinically.”

Research on NAC has shown that it is effective in reducing depletion of glutathione. People with ME/CFS are demonstrably low on glutathione. However, direct supplementation with glutathione is problematic because glutathione is rapidly broken down in the gut. Taking glutathione precursors, such as NAC, allows the body to synthesize glutathione on its own.

Treatment rating for N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)