N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
Antioxidant support for lungs and brain health
Category: CAM
Overview
In plain language
NAC is a precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. It supports respiratory health, liver detoxification, and provides powerful antioxidant protection while helping thin mucus in the airways.
NAC is a precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. It supports respiratory health, liver detoxification, and provides powerful antioxidant protection while helping thin mucus in the airways.
NAC replenishes glutathione, one of the body’s most important antioxidants. It helps clear mucus from the airways, supports immune resilience, and may protect against oxidative brain stress. Commonly used for chronic lung conditions and cognitive support, NAC promotes clear breathing and energy metabolism. For seniors, it offers gentle respiratory and neurological protection.
Benefits
Use this section to compare the kinds of benefits people most often look for from this treatment.
General Benefits
N-Acetylcysteine supports multiple body systems through its role as a glutathione precursor and direct antioxidant. It helps maintain healthy glutathione levels, supports respiratory health, promotes liver detoxification, and provides neuroprotective benefits.
Physical Benefits
Supports respiratory health – Helps thin and loosen mucus, making it easier to clear from airways
Promotes liver detoxification – Enhances glutathione production to support the liver's cleansing processes
Provides antioxidant protection – Both directly and through glutathione synthesis, protects cells from oxidative damage
Supports immune function – Glutathione is essential for proper immune cell function and response
Mental Benefits
NAC crosses the blood-brain barrier and supports brain health through its antioxidant effects and modulation of glutamate signaling. Research suggests potential benefits for mood regulation, compulsive behaviors, and cognitive function.
Additional Information
Related Conditions: COPD, cognitive decline, fatigue
Conditions This May Help With
See where this treatment appears most often and review the related condition pages for context.
Health Condition
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It primarily affects the airways and air sacs in the lungs, leading to airflow limitations and breathing difficulties.
2 studies
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Health Condition
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways of the lungs. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties. While asthma can affect people of all ages, it can be particularly challenging for seniors.
1 study
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Expert View
This treatment is included because our expert advisors consider it relevant, even if supporting studies are still limited.
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Our Experts' Opinion
While we don't yet have peer-reviewed research on n-acetylcysteine (nac) in our database, our clinical advisors have reviewed it and included it based on established clinical practice guidelines and expert consensus.
We continuously evaluate new research and will add supporting studies as they become available.
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