N-Acetyl Cysteine

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is a metabolite of the sulfur-containing amino acid, Cysteine. Cysteine is found in high protein foods, N-Acetyl Cysteine is not. N-Acetyl Cysteine is produced within the human body. Cysteine plays a role in the sulfation cycle, acting as a sulfur donor in phase II detoxification and as a methyl donor in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine. Cysteine also helps synthesize glutathione, one of the body's most important natural antioxidants and detoxifiers. N-Acetyl-Cysteine is the acetylated form of L-Cysteine.

N-Acetyl Cysteine increases Glutathione Levels

N-Acetyl Cysteine is rapidly metabolized to intracellular glutathione. Glutathione acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. Glutathione also detoxifies chemicals into less harmful compounds. N-Acetyl Cysteine also protects the body from acetaminophen toxicity and is used in hospitals for patients with acetaminophen poisoning. It has also been shown to be effective at treating liver failure from other causes as well.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Chelates Heavy Metals

Heavy metals like lead, mercury and arsenic are detoxified and removed from the body by N-Acetyl Cysteine . It also increases the excretion of zinc and other essential minerals when taken over an extended period. It is therefore necessary to supplement zinc, copper and other trace minerals when taking N-Acetyl Cysteine.

N-Acetyl Cysteine and the Immune System

Glutathione is known to aid in the transport of nutrients to lymphocytes and phagocytes, two major classes of immune cells, and to protect cell membranes. While purified glutathione is available as a dietary supplement, absorption is low, and N-Acetyl Cysteine is thought to be a better method of boosting cellular glutathione levels.

Rather than acting directly as an immune booster, N-Acetyl Cysteine supports the function of the immune system through the oxidative stress reduction of both the immune cells and other affected cellular structures. This is done by the glutathione that is increased by the N-Acetyl Cysteine.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Breaks up Mucus

N-Acetyl Cysteine cleaves disulfide bonds by converting them to two sulfhydryl groups. This action results in the breakup of mucoproteins in lung mucus, reducing their chain lengths and thinning the mucus, improving conditions such as bronchitis and flu. Double-blind research has found that N-Acetyl Cysteine supplements improved symptoms and prevented recurrences in people with chronic bronchitis. N-Acetyl Cysteine at a dosage of 1,200 mg per day helps to prevent Influenza infection, reduces the symptoms of existing Influenza infection and reduces the duration of Influenza infections.

N-Acetyl Cysteine for Treating Psychiatric Disorders

N-Acetyl Cysteine is currently being investigated for the treatment of psychiatric disorders. These disorders include addiction, compulsive disorders, schizophrenia, depression and bipolar disorder.

The theory for the use of N-Acetyl Cysteine in psychiatric disorders is based on the action as of glutathion as a modulating agent of glutamatergic, dopaminergic, neurotropic and inflammatory pathways. N-Acetyl Cysteine is a precursor to glutathione.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Side Effects and Safety

When taking N-acetyl cysteine it is recommended that two to three times as much vitamin C be taken at the same time. Failure to do so may result in more harm than good from taking this product because of the prolonged presence of the oxidized form of L-Cysteine. The vitamin C also helps keep the glutathione that is produced from the Cysteine in its reduced form so that it can continue acting as an antioxidant.

N-acetyl cysteine is likely safe for most adults when used in therapeutic dosage. In some individuals and under some conditions, It can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea or constipation. Rarely, it can cause rashes, fever, headache, drowsiness, low blood pressure, and liver problems. If any of these symptoms are experienced, discontinue use and consult your physician.

There is insufficient information on using N-acetyl cysteine with pregnancy of breast feeding. Consult your physician and use caution.

p N-acetyl Cysteine may act as a blood thinner. Do not use N-acetyl cysteine if taking anti-coagulant medications or before surgery.

N-acetyl Cysteine interacts with nitroglycerine increasing its potency. Avoid taking the two together.

Always report your supplement usage to your health care provider and specifically ask about any interactions and health and safety concerns.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Dosage

Typical dosage recommendations are in the range of 250-1500mg of NAC daily for the majority of uses. A common dosage is 600 mg. twice daily.

N-Acetyl Cysteine Supplements

Here are some recommended N-acetyl Cysteine products.

N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine> from the Life Extension Foundation.

Glutathione Cysteine Vitamin C from the Life Extension Foundation.

References

Anti-Aging Nutrition News

Life Extension Health Protocols

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