Evidence supporting the use of: N-Acetyl Cysteine
For the health condition: Nephritis

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Synopsis

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

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) has been investigated for its potential benefits in nephritis, particularly in the context of chronic kidney disease and glomerulonephritis. The scientific rationale for its use is based on its antioxidant properties, as NAC is a precursor to glutathione, a major intracellular antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress—a contributing factor in the progression of nephritis and kidney injury. Several small clinical trials and animal studies have evaluated NAC in the setting of kidney inflammation and injury. Some studies indicate that NAC may reduce markers of oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially slowing the decline in renal function or mitigating injury from nephrotoxic agents. However, results in human trials are mixed and often limited by small sample sizes, short durations, and heterogeneous patient populations.

For example, a few studies have assessed NAC as an adjunctive therapy in lupus nephritis or in the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy, with modest benefits observed in certain settings. Nevertheless, systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that while NAC is safe and may have some renoprotective effects, robust clinical evidence supporting its widespread use in nephritis is lacking. It is not part of standard nephritis treatment guidelines. Overall, the scientific evidence is limited and of low-to-moderate quality, justifying a score of 2 out of 5.

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