Evidence supporting the use of: Cysteine
For the health condition: Heavy Metal Poisoning

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Synopsis

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

Cysteine, particularly in its acetylated form as N-acetylcysteine (NAC), has scientific support for use in cases of heavy metal poisoning. NAC is a precursor to glutathione, a critical endogenous antioxidant and detoxifying agent that plays an important role in the conjugation and elimination of heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. Several animal studies and limited human trials have demonstrated that NAC can reduce tissue damage and enhance the excretion of certain heavy metals, likely by replenishing glutathione levels and providing sulfhydryl groups that bind to metals, forming less toxic complexes.

However, it is important to note that while NAC and cysteine derivatives have demonstrated beneficial effects, especially in preclinical studies, they are not considered first-line chelators in clinical toxicology. Standard pharmaceutical chelators like dimercaprol, EDTA, or DMSA are generally preferred due to stronger and more consistent efficacy. The clinical evidence for cysteine's benefit in heavy metal poisoning in humans is moderate but not definitive, often limited to adjunctive use or situations where standard chelators are contraindicated. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and some supportive evidence, the overall level of evidence is intermediate, and its use should be guided by a healthcare professional.

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