NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
Also known as: N-Acetylcysteine · N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine
A modified amino acid taken orally and studied as a glutathione and antioxidant precursor.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) at a glance
| Name | NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | N-Acetylcysteine, N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine |
| Category | Longevity & cellular energy |
| Type | Amino / injectable |
| Sequence | Acetylated amino acid (N-acetyl derivative of cysteine). |
| Typical dose | Commonly ~600-1200 mg per day as a supplement |
| Frequency | Once or twice daily |
| Route | Oral |
| Half-life | Short; cleared over a few hours. |
Overview
NAC is an acetylated form of the amino acid cysteine and a precursor to glutathione, a major cellular antioxidant. It has an established medical role in certain clinical settings and is also studied as a supplement for antioxidant and respiratory support.
How it’s thought to work
- Provides cysteine as a rate-limiting substrate for glutathione synthesis.
- Acts directly as a free-radical scavenger.
- May help thin mucus by breaking disulfide bonds.
Researched uses
- Glutathione and antioxidant support
- Respiratory and mucus-clearance contexts
- General cellular-stress research
Commonly cited protocol
| Typical dose | Commonly ~600-1200 mg per day as a supplement |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Once or twice daily |
| Route | Oral |
| Notes | Taken as a capsule; has an established clinical use under medical supervision. |
Reconstitution
Not applicable - this is an oral supplement, so injection unit math does not apply.
Cautions
- A dietary supplement, not a medical treatment in over-the-counter form.
- High doses may cause nausea or digestive upset.
- Regulatory status has varied; those with conditions should seek guidance.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) FAQ
What is NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)?
A modified amino acid taken orally and studied as a glutathione and antioxidant precursor.
How does NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) work?
Provides cysteine as a rate-limiting substrate for glutathione synthesis. Acts directly as a free-radical scavenger. May help thin mucus by breaking disulfide bonds.
What is NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) used for?
Glutathione and antioxidant support; Respiratory and mucus-clearance contexts; General cellular-stress research.
What is a typical NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) dose?
Commonly ~600-1200 mg per day as a supplement, Once or twice daily, Oral. This is a commonly cited figure for context only, not medical advice.
How do you reconstitute NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)?
Not applicable - this is an oral supplement, so injection unit math does not apply.
What is the half-life of NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)?
Short; cleared over a few hours.