Evidence supporting the use of: N-acetylcysteine
For the health condition: Addictions (coffee, caffeine)

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Synopsis

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

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been investigated for its role in treating various addictions, including those related to substances such as nicotine, cannabis, cocaine, and pathological gambling. The scientific rationale is that NAC acts as a precursor to glutathione and modulates glutamatergic neurotransmission, particularly within the nucleus accumbens—a brain region involved in reward and addiction pathways. By restoring extracellular glutamate levels, NAC may help reduce cravings and compulsive behaviors.

Regarding caffeine or coffee addiction specifically, scientific evidence is limited. Most published studies and clinical trials on NAC in addiction focus on substances with higher abuse potential and withdrawal syndromes, such as cocaine, cannabis, and nicotine. There are no high-quality randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses directly supporting the use of NAC for coffee or caffeine addiction. However, some mechanistic arguments and small pilot studies suggest that glutamatergic modulation could, in theory, impact a broader range of addictive behaviors, including those involving caffeine.

In summary, while there is a modest body of evidence supporting NAC's use in certain substance use disorders, there is insufficient direct scientific evidence for its efficacy in treating coffee or caffeine addiction. Its use for this purpose is thus experimental and not established in clinical practice.

More about N-acetylcysteine
More about Addictions (coffee, caffeine)

Other ingredients used for Addictions (coffee, caffeine)

chicory
ginseng
green tea
kudzu
l-theanine
passionflower
water
yerba mate

Products containing N-acetylcysteine

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.