Evidence supporting the use of: Cysteine
For the health condition: Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Cysteine is a sulfur-containing amino acid and a precursor to glutathione, a critical antioxidant in the body. Its use in supporting individuals with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is based on scientific evidence that highlights the role of oxidative stress and glutathione deficiency in HIV/AIDS progression. Several studies from the 1990s and 2000s have documented that patients with HIV infection often exhibit significantly reduced levels of glutathione, which may contribute to immune system dysfunction and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections. Supplementation with N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a cysteine prodrug, has been shown in clinical studies to increase intracellular glutathione levels in HIV-positive individuals and may slow the decline of immune function. However, while some early trials suggested that NAC could reduce HIV replication and improve certain immune markers, large-scale clinical trials demonstrating a clear impact on disease progression, morbidity, or mortality are lacking. Current guidelines do not recommend cysteine or NAC as a standard treatment for AIDS, but it is sometimes used as an adjunct, particularly in those with documented glutathione deficiency or increased oxidative stress. Overall, the evidence base is moderate and mechanistically sound, but not definitive for broad clinical efficacy.

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