Evidence supporting the use of: N-acetylcysteine
For the health condition: Cystic Fibrosis

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been investigated as a treatment for cystic fibrosis (CF) primarily due to its mucolytic properties and antioxidant effects. In CF, thick, sticky mucus accumulates in the lungs, leading to recurrent infections and lung damage. NAC acts as a precursor to glutathione, a major antioxidant, and can also disrupt disulfide bonds in mucus, theoretically thinning it and making it easier to clear from the airways.

Despite a plausible mechanism of action, clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of NAC in CF is limited and mixed. Some small studies and early research suggested that inhaled or oral NAC could improve sputum viscosity and reduce oxidative stress. However, larger, well-controlled studies have generally failed to demonstrate significant clinical benefit in terms of lung function, frequency of pulmonary exacerbations, or quality of life. NAC is not currently recommended in major CF treatment guidelines, and it is used infrequently in clinical practice for this indication.

In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and limited clinical data for the use of NAC in cystic fibrosis, the overall quality and consistency of evidence is low, leading to a moderate-to-low evidence rating (2/5). Its use for CF is not strongly supported by robust clinical trials, and it remains a marginal or adjunctive option rather than a standard therapy.

More about N-acetylcysteine
More about Cystic Fibrosis

Other ingredients used for Cystic Fibrosis

green tea
mannitol
quercetin
resveratrol
vitamin C
vitamin D
zinc

Products containing N-acetylcysteine

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