N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
We prefer this brand because ...
This N-acetyl cysteine or NAC is high potency and well-absorbed, and has a long track record with our patients as a specific remedy for helping chronic sinus symptoms such as postnasal drainage, congestion, facial fullness and sinus headaches, and for effectively reducing the frequency or intensity of recurring sinus infections. It also is helpful for COPD, asthma and emphysema. For lung disorders a dose of 1,200mg of NAC daily is safe for months, which requires just two capsules and is economical with this brand. The company who makes it, 'Metabolic Maintenance', has specialized in amino acid formulas for years, and adheres to high standards of Good Manufacturing Practices, quality control, and accountability.
About N-acetyl cysteine
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a variant of the naturally-occurring sulfur-rich amino acid L-cysteine, and is a source of sulfhydryl (-SH) groups. It may be a precursor for glutathione, an important antioxidant in the body that is made up of several amino acids including cysteine.
NAC has a long and successful history as a decongestant and mucolytic: It directly breaks the disulfur bonds in mucus proteins, breaking mucus into smaller less viscous fragments, as shown in cell and human studies. Looser mucus is less likely to adhere to nasal or lung linings, and can be more easily coughed up. This reduces the risk of infection for sinuses or lungs, as bacteria can less easily colonize mucus that is thinner in texture and more free-flowing. The ability to clear inhaled particulate matter or microbes from the lung or sinus airways depends upon the movement of cilia, hair-like projections from the cells lining air passages, and upon the texture of the mucus which is continually wafted towards the outside by cilia. NAC speeds the clearance of thinner mucus by cilia.
For chronic bronchitis, emphysema, COPD, and even chronic asthma, NAC can reduce coughing, improve air entry into lungs, and thus boost oxygen saturation in the blood. Many studies have shown good results with oral dosing of NAC; using a nebulizer for acute symptoms has produced even better improvements. Long term, many trials have shown NAC contributes to fewer exacerbations of COPD and bronchitis. NAC increases glutathione in plasma and in the fluid that naturally lines the bronchioles and alveoli, thus helping to reduce inflammation in the lungs and giving extra protection against infection. NAC helps treat collapse of part or all of a lung (atelectasis) caused by mucus blockage. It is also used to prepare the lungs for diagnostic tests, and to help prevent crusting of mucus for people with a tracheostomy tube.
NAC is used under medical supervision to counter acetaminophen overdose and protect the liver, heart, kidneys and brain from damage due to sudden depletion of glutathione stores. There has also been exploration of possibly using NAC to inhibit the HIV virus and help glutathione deficiency in HIV/AIDS. NAC is also helpful as a liver protector. For pulmonary fibrosis a 2014 University of Washington study found that NAC may not be valuable.
Contents
2 capsules provide:N-Acetyl L-Cysteine 1,200 mg.
Other Ingredients: vegetarian cellulose capsule.
Free of: - This product does Not contain: artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, preservatives, parabens, dairy/milk/casein products, gluten, corn, ingredients of animal origin, shellfish, egg, salt, soy, sugar, wheat, yeast.
Cautions
Always take natural remedies under the supervision of your health care provider. Do not use 'NAC' if you take Tegretol, carbamazepine, as it can reduce the effectiveness, or with nitroglycerine as it could cause headache. Do not use 'NAC' without the advice of your healthcare professional if you are receiving chemotherapy as it may interfere with the benefits. 'NAC' may have a slight blood-thinning effect, use only with caution with the care of your healthcare provider if you are also taking blood thinning drugs such as warfarin, heparin, and check clotting times regularly. There may a slight increase of blood-thinning effect with high doses of natural remedies including clove, garlic, ginger, ginkgo, curcumin, and fish oil. NSAID drugs such as aspirin, Plavix, ibuprofen or naproxen can also have blood-thinning effects that are potentiated by NAC. Don't exceed 1200mg. daily as there is evidence that excessive amounts of NAC may increase oxidative stress. Do not use 'NAC' during pregnancy or nursing unless under the guidance of your physician, it can cross the placenta and there is insufficient data about safety during pregnancy.
Testimonials
60 capsules
Benefits of Consistency
“With the right vitamins, herbs and foods, your health can continue to improve over time, as vibrant new tissues replace old cells. Our patients often feel increasing vitality as medical tests get better and better, year after year.”
- Dr. Rachelle Herdman