Synopsis

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

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) has scientific support for its use as an adjunct in infection management, primarily due to its antioxidant, mucolytic, and immunomodulatory properties. NAC is a precursor to glutathione, a major intracellular antioxidant, and helps reduce oxidative stress, which often increases during infections. Several studies have suggested that NAC can disrupt biofilms formed by bacteria, making them more susceptible to antibiotics and the host immune response. For respiratory infections, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations and cystic fibrosis, NAC's ability to thin mucus improves clearance and may reduce infection risk or severity. Some randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that NAC supplementation decreases the frequency and duration of respiratory infections.

Additionally, in viral infections, such as influenza, NAC has been demonstrated in animal and some human studies to reduce symptoms and improve outcomes, possibly by modulating the inflammatory response. However, evidence is less robust for bacterial or non-respiratory infections. While NAC is not a primary treatment for infections, its adjunctive use is supported in certain contexts, especially for respiratory tract infections. The overall evidence is moderate (rated 3/5), with most benefits observed in specific subgroups rather than as a broad-spectrum anti-infective agent.

More about N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
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Other ingredients used for Infection

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