NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
N-acetyl-L-cysteine. Dietary Supplement, amino acid derivative / antioxidant.
This page describes what NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is and its known risks. It is not medical advice and not a guide to using it. Many of these substances are prescription-only or illegal to use without a prescription. Speak to a doctor.
- Class
- Dietary Supplement
- Legal status
- Over-the-counter in most countries (medicine in some)
- Half-life
- ~6 hours
- Liver strain
- None at typical doses
- Kidney strain
- None at typical doses
- Converts to estrogen
- None
- Suppresses natural hormones
- Not typically
Medical uses
- Paracetamol overdose (IV)
- Mucus thinning
What it does in the body
Hepatic
- Raises glutathione, the body’s main antioxidant
Forms, half-life and detection
| Form | Half-life | Reported detection window |
|---|---|---|
| Oral (capsule) | ~6 hours | N/A (not a banned substance) |
Side effects and health risks
Gastrointestinal
- Nausea and sulphur smell
Related compounds
- Creatine Monohydrate
- Creatine Hydrochloride (HCl)
- L-Glutamine
- GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)
- Dextrose
- Melatonin
- BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)
- EAAs (Essential Amino Acids)
Questions
What is the half-life of NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)?
About ~6 hours. Half-life is the time for the level in the blood to fall by half.
How long is NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) detectable?
Testing windows of N/A (not a banned substance) are reported, depending on the test and the person.
Is NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) legal?
Over-the-counter in most countries (medicine in some). Laws differ by country and change; check the rules where you live.
What blood tests matter with NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)?
Ask a doctor which tests suit you.
What are the side effects of NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)?
Gastrointestinal: nausea and sulphur smell.
For information only, not medical advice. MyoStats is a tracking tool used at your own discretion. Speak to a doctor before changing your training, diet, medication or anything you take.