Evidence supporting the use of: L-Acetyl n-Cysteine
For the health condition: Cystic Fibrosis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

L-Acetyl n-Cysteine (NAC) is used in the management of cystic fibrosis (CF) primarily due to its mucolytic and antioxidant properties. The rationale is based on the need to reduce the viscosity of pulmonary secretions and to counteract oxidative stress—both significant issues in CF pathology. NAC serves as a precursor to glutathione, an important intracellular antioxidant that is often depleted in CF patients. By replenishing glutathione levels, NAC may help protect lung tissue from oxidative damage.

Historically, mucolytic agents have played a role in CF management to improve airway clearance. NAC can disrupt disulfide bonds in mucus glycoproteins, potentially reducing mucus thickness and facilitating expectoration.

However, clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of oral or inhaled NAC in CF is mixed. Some early studies suggested modest improvements in sputum viscosity and markers of oxidative stress, but larger and more recent randomized controlled trials have not consistently demonstrated clear clinical benefits in terms of lung function or exacerbation rates. Systematic reviews, including Cochrane reviews, generally conclude that while NAC is well-tolerated, there is insufficient high-quality evidence to recommend its routine use in CF, especially as a mucolytic, over other established therapies such as dornase alfa or hypertonic saline.

In summary, the use of NAC in CF is scientifically grounded based on its pharmacological properties, but clinical evidence for significant benefit is limited, leading to only moderate support for its use in this context.

More about L-Acetyl n-Cysteine
More about Cystic Fibrosis

Other ingredients used for Cystic Fibrosis

green tea
mannitol
quercetin
resveratrol
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc

Products containing L-Acetyl n-Cysteine

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