Question 1

What is N-Acetyl Cysteine?

Accepted Answer

N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid cysteine. In medicine, NAC is an FDA-approved drug for specific uses (e.g., acetaminophen overdose and as a mucolytic in certain settings). NAC is also sold in the U.S. in products labeled as dietary supplements, but its legal/regulatory status as a “dietary supplement” ingredient has been complicated because NAC was first approved as a drug long ago; FDA has issued guidance describing enforcement discretion for certain NAC products labeled as supplements.

Question 2

What are the common uses of N-Acetyl Cysteine?

Accepted Answer

N-Acetyl Cysteine is commonly used for As a dietary supplement: commonly marketed for antioxidant support (as a glutathione precursor), As a dietary supplement: commonly marketed for respiratory mucus support (mucolytic), As a drug (medical use): acetaminophen overdose antidote, and others.

Question 3

How does N-Acetyl Cysteine work?

Accepted Answer

NAC can replenish intracellular cysteine, supporting synthesis of glutathione (a major antioxidant). It can also act as a mucolytic by affecting disulfide bonds in mucus, which can reduce mucus viscosity in certain contexts.

Question 4

What are the side effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine may include GI upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), Unpleasant odor/taste reported with some products. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement.

Question 5

Are there any warnings or precautions for N-Acetyl Cysteine?

Accepted Answer

If you have asthma or are prone to bronchospasm, use caution and consult a clinician (NAC can affect airways in some contexts). People taking multiple medications or with chronic liver/kidney disease should consult a clinician before high-dose or long-term use. Additional precautions may apply.

Question 6

Is N-Acetyl Cysteine FDA approved?

Accepted Answer

United States: NAC is an approved drug, and FDA has issued guidance describing an enforcement discretion policy for certain NAC-containing products labeled as dietary supplements that otherwise meet applicable requirements.

Question 7

Where can I buy N-Acetyl Cysteine?

Accepted Answer

Widely available OTC in products labeled as dietary supplements; also available as prescription/clinical drug formulations.

N-Acetyl Cysteine

📋Overview

Common Uses

How It Works

Sources and Forms

Common Side Effects

Warnings and Precautions

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Regulatory Status

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