It is a derivative active as an antioxidant and mucolytic : it is the active principle of some drugs indicated in the treatment of respiratory affections which cause dense and viscous hypersecretion of phlegm; the antioxidant action helps to reduce inflammation in the bronchi and lung tissue, it is administered in cases of bronchitis, COPD, it can improve other lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis, asthma and pulmonary fibrosis.
AS A DRUG WHAT IS ITS USED FOR?
It is administered intravenously as an antidote in paracetamol poisoning, in order to prevent or reduce damage to the kidneys and liver.
It is almost 100% effective as long as it is administered within the first 8 hours of the overdose; also useful for combating the toxicity of various substances that can cause the generation of free radicals, such as carbon monoxide and X-ray contrast media.
It has anti-flu and mucolytic properties, it helps to dissolve phlegm from the airways favoring its expulsion, it is one of the best-selling drugs in this case (examples: Fluimucil, Rinofluimucil, Solmucol and Broncohexal ).
It can also relieve symptoms of nasal and sinus congestion due to allergies or infections.
Acetylcysteine taken as a supplement or as drug therapy is available in tablets, syrup, sachets, or vials for aerosol or injectable administration. In sachets and tablets, the drug is sold in prescription packs or as an over-the-counter drug (SOP) depending on the dosage. (The suggested dosages for adequate supplementation with N-acetylcysteine are generally 600 mg 1-3 times a day).
WHAT ARE ALL THE BENEFITS AND PROPERTIES OF NAC?
In general, N-acetylcysteine is used:
-As a hepatoprotective agent;
-As an antioxidant;
-As a cardioprotective element;
-As a mucolytic.
BUT LET'S SEE THEM IN DETAIL:
- NAC may be useful as an adjunct to standard therapy to combat various disorders caused by oxidative stress , such as heart disease, diabetes, infertility, and even some psychiatric conditions.
- It can help control blood sugar by reducing inflammation in fat cells and increasing insulin sensitivity.
In addition, with its antioxidant action it can help prevent complications of diabetes by supporting glutathione levels.
- It may reduce the risk of heart disease by protecting the heart from oxidative damage and aiding in blood pressure control, increases nitric oxide production, which induces vasodilation and improves blood flow.
- It reduces the body's inflammatory response , helps prevent the flu or reduce the symptoms of a common cold.
- it represents an effective mucolytic , helping to "dissolve the phlegm" in case of wet cough and bronchitis.
- Added to standard treatment, NAC can be very beneficial for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), improving fertility and helping to lower blood lipids, fasting blood sugar, insulin.
- It can help balance levels of glutamate, which is one of the most important neurotransmitters, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress can promote the growth of new brain cells. Due to these effects, NAC has been reported to improve mood in depressed patients.
- Combined treatment with NAC and other antioxidants improves cognition in healthy older people with mild cognitive impairment.
- In patients with Parkinson's disease , NAC supplements appear to improve both dopamine function and disease symptoms such as tremors.
- It is also used in the treatment of cyclophosphamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis due to its ability to decrease the efficacy of cyclophosphamide.
NAC AND SPORTS:
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is part, together with glutamate and glycine, in the synthesis of the most powerful antioxidant available to us: glutathione.
As a supplement, it is used to increase levels of glutathione, which is essential for immune system health and to fight against cellular damage.
In sports, like other antioxidants, it is useful in reducing the oxidative damage that occurs following intense physical activity and, and indirectly, in:
- Improve athletic performance;
- Reduce the feeling of fatigue;
- Facilitate recovery.
DID YOU KNOW THAT IT IS ALSO USED IN COSMETICS?
Creams or gels containing N-acetylcysteine can improve skin health by protecting it from oxidative damage.
Its topical application can be useful in case of dermatitis, skin irritation, radiation-induced skin damage and acne. It is also used in the treatment of baldness.
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