Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) is scientifically validated as a supportive agent for the lungs, primarily due to its mucolytic and antioxidant properties. NAC acts as a precursor to glutathione, a major intracellular antioxidant, and has been used clinically for decades to treat conditions involving thick, viscous mucus and oxidative stress in the respiratory tract.

Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that NAC reduces the viscosity of mucus, making it easier to expectorate. It is approved in several countries as a mucolytic therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and cystic fibrosis. A 2015 Cochrane review found that long-term NAC use reduced exacerbation rates in people with chronic bronchitis and COPD. Additionally, its antioxidant effects are thought to help counteract oxidative lung injury caused by smoking, pollution, and respiratory infections.

NAC is also used intravenously in acute settings, such as acetaminophen overdose, but this is unrelated to lung support. The evidence for its benefit in other lung conditions, like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), is less robust, but some small studies suggest possible benefits.

In summary, NAC’s use for lung support is grounded in scientific evidence, especially for mucus clearance and potentially for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in chronic lung diseases.

More about n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
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