N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) - Glossary

N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC)

An analog of the amino acid l-cysteine.  NAC is a drug used to a) help dissolve mucus and treat inflammation in respiratory conditions; b) protect against radiocontrast-induced nephropathy; and c) to treat acetaminophen toxicity.  It’s also taken as an oral supplement, as it’s a precursor to glutathione, a potent endogenous antioxidant.  NAC may also have neuroprotective effects in brain injury and exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs.

Author: elissa

Elissa is a former research associate with the University of California at Davis, and the author/co-author of over a dozen articles published in scientific journals. Currently a freelance writer and researcher, Elissa brings her multidisciplinary education and training to her writing on nutrition and supplements.

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *