When to take it
With or between meals; with food if your stomach is sensitive.
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Amino acidsModerate evidence
NAC – N-acetylcysteine
Also known as: N-acetyl-L-cysteine
NAC is a more stable form of the amino acid cysteine that the body uses to make glutathione, the main intracellular antioxidant. Medically it is used to loosen mucus and in paracetamol poisoning.
What it is used for
- Raising glutathione and antioxidant support – moderate evidence
- Loosening thick mucus in cough – moderate evidence (medicinal use)
- Liver support outside hospital treatment – weak evidence
- Adjunct support in some mental health conditions – weak evidence
Forms and how they differ
NAC capsules
common supplement form, characteristic sulphur smell
effervescent tablets and sachets
often sold in pharmacies as a mucus medicine
Pairs well with
Glycine (together they support glutathione), vitamin C.
Do not combine / separate
Do not combine with activated charcoal. Do not take at the same time as cough suppressants.
Watch out for
Caution with asthma, peptic ulcers, blood thinners and nitrates (nitroglycerin). Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have kidney or liver disease or take any medicines.
Safety
Do not exceed the label dose.
Practical tip
The sulphur smell is normal for NAC – keep capsules tightly closed in a dry place.
Products containing NAC – N-acetylcysteine 3
NAC – N-acetylcysteine N-acetyl-L-cysteine 150 mgN-acetyl-L-cysteine · 150 mg / capsule
NAC – N-acetylcysteine 600 mgNAC · 600 mg / capsule
NAC – N-acetylcysteine + Selenium + MolybdenumNAC
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence
Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.
Combination check
Select the supplements you take and, if relevant, your medicines. We show what interferes, what needs a time gap and what to watch out for.
Check NAC – N-acetylcysteine with othersWhich supplements do you actually need?
Fénix Methode picks them from your blood results and schedules when to take what – no needless purchases.
From the same group
Acetyl-L-carnitineWeak evidenceAlmond proteinWeak evidenceAmino acid complexWeak evidenceBCAAWeak evidenceBeef proteinModerate evidenceCaseinStrong evidence
Important notice
This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.