Life Extension N-Acetyl L-Cysteine

5 people found this helpful

My chest sensitivity and increased phlegm have been greatly relieved, thanks to my brother's recommendation of this product.

Cholecystitis details

Beneficial for organs

This product is genuinely beneficial for the liver and gallbladder.

Depression details

Life-changing experience

For me, NAC has been life-changing! It effectively alleviates ruminations that lead to depression and OCD. A low dose of 600 mg each morning works wonders.

Heart Disease details

Supports heart health

NAC offers numerous health benefits. It may lower heart disease risk by diminishing oxidative damage to heart tissues and neutralising free radicals that harm cells. Antioxidants also bolster the body’s natural immune system and assist in toxin elimination. Moreover, glutamate, a neurotransmitter influenced by NAC, plays a key role in learning, behaviour, and memory functions. Glutathione helps lower oxidative damage to brain cells linked to ageing. I take 1 to 2 NAC supplements daily, with or without meals, following the suggested intake of 600–1,800 mg.

Pelvic Pain details

My wife can confirm the effectiveness of NAC in reducing pain symptoms related to endometriosis. I am so pleased for her!

Rash details

Rash completely healed

9 people found this helpful

I have been drinking for many years. The primary reason I started taking it was due to a rash on my palm. All of the rashes have healed. I'm nearly 40, yet I have hardly any grey hair.

Urinary Tract Infection details

Regular cycles achieved

I’ve been taking NAC for years, and it has regulated my cycle to 28 days consistently and energised me. A brief break made me feel lethargic, but resuming NAC restored my vitality and cleared the mucus in my throat. I trust this brand and am satisfied with its quality.

Anxiety details

36 people found this helpful

Results may differ, but NAC worked for my OCD-induced anxiety. I discovered it could be effective for anxiety linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder. I began to feel a calmness enveloping my heart. I now take it daily as a supplement. I’ve tried both Life Extension and Now Foods; both are effective. I often prefer Now, as it contains molybdenum, a mineral crucial for glutathione synthesis, which is rare in standalone supplements.

Brain Tumor details

Improves memory significantly

121 people found this helpful

Improves brain function. I took it for recovery after surgery. During long subway trips, my head began to spin, feeling as if I had "rested" it. I consumed the drug for a month, taking 2 capsules daily, morning and evening, and the symptoms ceased. Overall, my memory and performance have significantly improved.

Cancer details

Rutecarpine shows anti-cancer promise

Questionable

Based on 4 Researches

Jiang ZB, He QH, Kang LP, Jiang S, Liu JN, et al. Rutecarpine Suppresses Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Progression Through Activating the STING Pathway and Elevating CD8+ T Cells. Chem Biol Drug Des. 2025;105:e70070. doi:10.1111/cbdd.70070

We explored the effect of rutecarpine, a natural compound from Chinese herbs, on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and how n-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) interacts with this treatment. Our study showed that rutecarpine can trigger cell death and reduce the growth of cancer cells, primarily by promoting the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that lead to mitochondrial dysfunction.

Importantly, we observed that when cells were exposed to NAC, it was able to suppress this ROS production, suggesting that NAC might mitigate some of rutecarpine’s cancer-fighting effects. We also noted that rutecarpine activated the STING pathway and increased the levels of immune signals, which could boost the body's immune response against the tumor.

However, while NAC plays a protective role by dampening excess ROS, it’s clear that rutecarpine’s ability to combat NSCLC is more pronounced when NAC is not present. In in vivo studies, rutecarpine not only slowed tumor growth significantly, but also elevated the presence of active CD8 T cells, enhancing antitumor immunity. This shows promise for rutecarpine as a potential treatment for lung cancer, albeit with a nuanced interaction with NAC that requires further exploration.

Glutathione production improved

Most Useful Review

I wholeheartedly recommend this modified form of cysteine. It significantly boosts glutathione levels in the body, which is critical in fighting cancer and preventing ageing. Acetylcysteine's detoxifying ability is notable, and its effectiveness is widely recognised in both preventive and curative cardiology practices.

Celiac details

Taking this to enhance fertility and egg quality, I appreciate that it is gluten-free, boosts cellular glutathione levels, and is both a dietary supplement and Non-GMO LE Certified. The ingredients are excellent, and it is gentle on my stomach. The size is small and easy to consume. The packaging is very portable, ideal for travel. I've noticed improvement in egg quality, though this is alongside other dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

Swollen Lymph Nodes details

When I experience an allergy reaction and my sinuses are inflamed, I use this product. It generally works very quickly to relieve the pain and reduce the swelling. I would recommend it.

Yeast Infection details

Prevents chest infections

This has been life-changing for me. Previously, I would always develop a chest infection after a mere cold, but since incorporating NAC daily, I either avoid these infections or encounter only mild cases. Medical professionals have employed N-acetyl cysteine with cystic fibrosis patients for years as a mucolytic. If you have similar issues, I highly recommend trying it.

Abscess details

The best for Endometriosis! I’ve been taking NAC for four months, and my ovarian cysts are decreasing in size. I take two capsules daily on an empty stomach, although you can take three capsules three times daily for three days a week.

Acne details

Montes LF, Wilborn WH, Montes CM. Topical acne treatment with acetylcysteine: clinical and experimental effects. Skinmed. 2012;10:348.

Possibly Effective

Based on 5 Researches

Acetylcysteine effective for acne

We conducted a rigorous double-blind study to investigate the effect of a 5% acetylcysteine topical gel on grade I acne. With 99 participants, we aimed to see if this treatment could help reduce the number of comedones, which are those pesky clogged pores often seen in acne.

The results were promising. Our analysis showed that acetylcysteine significantly outperformed a placebo, with a statistical significance of P = .04. Both male and female participants benefited similarly, lending confidence to these findings.

This evidence suggests that acetylcysteine is a strong contender as a therapeutic option for those dealing with mild to moderate acne. The study underscores a potential new method for managing acne that could be appealing to many seeking effective treatments.

NAC for severe acne

Most Useful Review

34 people found this helpful

Due to a severe acne problem, I was prescribed Accutane, which cleared the acne but left me deeply depressed. A friend recommended NAC, and it’s significantly improved my mood. I had felt hopeless for six months, so the relief now feels incredibly refreshing. This truly works for me.

Cough details

NAC may effectively ease COPD cough

Moderately Effective

Based on 2 Researches

We examined the role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in treating cough, particularly among patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This treatment approach falls under the broader framework of the treatable traits strategy, which focuses on identifying and managing specific symptoms that significantly impact patients' lives.

Our findings highlighted NAC's well-established effectiveness as a mucolytic agent, meaning it helps break down mucus in the airways, which can alleviate persistent cough. However, we observed that NAC does not just target coughing alone; it also may have broader benefits for various clinical traits associated with COPD, such as airflow limitation and lung inflammation.

Nevertheless, the isolated effects of NAC strictly on cough treatment can be hard to discern due to these overlapping factors. In some cases, NAC has shown promise in improving symptoms and overall quality of life for COPD patients, suggesting it could be an important component of a personalized treatment plan.

Overall, NAC may not only target cough effectively but also plays a role in managing other serious symptoms of COPD, which makes it a valuable option for those seeking relief from this challenging condition.

Helps cope with cough

Most Useful Review

196 people found this helpful

It helps me cope with a cough. Overall, for any cold, it's a good remedy. I recommend it.

Cystic Fibrosis details

Reduced chest infections

Life-changing! Before taking this daily, I would always suffer from a chest infection or bronchitis following a simple cold or sore throat, often worse than the cold itself. Now, I either don’t get the chest infection, or if I do, it is a mild version that barely affects me. Respiratory physicians have used N-acetyl cysteine for decades with cystic fibrosis patients as a mucolytic therapy to break down thick mucus, and I wonder if that’s how it works with me too. If you experience similar issues, I recommend trying this. I take 3000mg daily, but possibly less would suffice.

Heart Attack details

It supports heart and blood vessel health, and I recommend it for those over the age of forty.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome details

Supports ovulation restoration

4 people found this helpful

N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine prevents excessive pigmentation and supports respiratory health by maintaining healthy glutathione levels. This powerful antioxidant protects against oxidative stress and aids in restoring regular ovulation in women with Polycystic ovary syndrome. It improves sperm quality and mobility in men, reduces inflammation, and thins mucus for easier passage. To experience improvement, it is advisable to take NAC for at least three months, ideally in conjunction with vitamin C. It also regulates blood sugar levels, reduces insulin resistance, and lowers cholesterol, making it beneficial for both prevention and recovery following respiratory illnesses.

Whooping Cough details

Excellent! My husband, at 48, has struggled with constant nasal congestion and a chronic cough for years, despite quitting smoking and taking supplements like omega 3. After a few weeks of acetylcysteine, he reported ease in breathing and overall improvement. I believe it has benefitted his liver too! I tested it on him, and now I might try it for myself! (I'm joking, of course!)

Blood Clot details

4 people found this helpful

I read that taking NAC is highly recommended nowadays as it combats oxidative stress and blood clotting, observed in many COVID-19 patients. I purchased this product and am highly satisfied. I take it daily and feel fantastic. I favour this brand for its absence of unnecessary ingredients, particularly avoiding magnesium stearate.

Cardiovascular Disease details

7 people found this helpful

I bought NAC for a friend to help ease the course of COVID. He has been taking it as part of a general protocol for several days and says that he feels better with it. He takes one capsule every 12 hours, either before or separately from meals.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease details

Chen J, Cheng Y, Cui H, Li S, Duan L, et al. N‑acetyl‑L‑cysteine protects rat lungs and RLE‑6TN cells from cigarette smoke‑induced oxidative stress. Mol Med Rep. 2025;31. doi:10.3892/mmr.2025.13462

Possibly Effective

Based on 4 Researches

NAC protects lungs from damage

We examined how N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) impacts lung health in the context of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by exposing rats to cigarette smoke (CS) over a four-week period. This study set up a model of lung injury to assess the damage caused by CS and the protective effects of NAC.

After exposure, we observed significant changes in the lung tissue, including widening of the alveolar walls and increased inflammatory cell infiltration, suggesting serious oxidative injury. We found that NAC treatment helped counteract some of the harmful effects, reducing markers of oxidative stress like malondialdehyde while boosting protective enzymes such as superoxide dismutase.

Additionally, we noted that in lung cells exposed to cigarette smoke, NAC also mitigated apoptosis, which is a form of programmed cell death induced by oxidative stress. This underscores the potential for NAC as a therapeutic agent to replenish the body’s glutathione and aid in protecting lung health amidst the damaging effects of smoking.

Overall, our findings point to NAC's beneficial role in shielding lung tissues from damage due to cigarette smoke, reinforcing its use as an antioxidant in managing COPD.

7.5

Avoids Exacerbations

Most Useful Review

1 people found this helpful

I have been using this NAC for several years and remain satisfied. It is a cost-effective analogue to pharmaceutical preparations containing the same active ingredient. NAC proves useful for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acting on the bronchial tube lining. I take it during winter at a dosage of 1000-1200 mg daily to prevent severe exacerbations of the disease, especially in an elderly relative with Parkinson's disease.

Common Cold details

Effective cold remedy

24 people found this helpful

Excellent cold remedy! It's an absolute analogue of ACC, and while we have just 10 effervescent tablets, this product provides 60 capsules—a significant difference. Acetylcysteine serves as a mucolytic, expectorant, and antioxidant, effective for respiratory diseases involving viscous sputum. When I feel aches or start to get unwell, I take an ACC capsule at night. Be healthy!

Hair Loss details

I took this medication with a regimen of two tablets each morning. Remarkably, my hair stopped falling out just four days after starting the treatment. After six months of significant hair loss, I am relieved that the issue has ceased. Thank goodness for this solution!

Pneumonia details

Quick pneumonia recovery

7 people found this helpful

An excellent multifunctional tool. I take it for prophylaxis as an antioxidant and to support immunity. When I had pneumonia, NAC served well as an antiviral. I took its maximum dose—one tablet three times daily. It was well tolerated and effectively reduced the viscosity of sputum. I believe my pneumonia subsided quickly thanks to it. I appreciate that it doesn't have a strong unpleasant odour compared to its counterpart from Doctor's Best.

Premenstrual Syndrome details

Decreased PMS symptoms

Excellent! I've purchased my second jar, using it primarily for liver health and to bolster my resistance against coronavirus. It serves as an exceptional antioxidant, safeguarding my body's cells from the effects of free radicals while also promoting glutathione synthesis. I have noticed a decrease in premenstrual syndrome symptoms while taking NAC and glutathione.

Autoimmune Disorder details

Glutathione increase benefits

34 people found this helpful

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome details

Boosted energy levels

6 people found this helpful

I am recovering from an iron and copper deficiency that went undiagnosed for quite some time. After building my stores of these nutrients, NAC gave me an energy boost as well. I believe it is healing my cells from the years of stress associated with insufficient copper and iron. I highly recommend it for anyone as research shows many benefits of NAC.

Cold Sores details

Highly effective remedy

16 people found this helpful

An excellent drug, particularly effective during colds and beyond.

Cold details

N-acetylcysteine protects cold platelets

Likely Very Effective

Xie R, Yang Y, Jiang X, Gao L, Sun J, et al. The effect of modulating platelet reactive oxygen species by the addition of antioxidants to prevent clearance of cold-stored platelets. Hematol Transfus Cell Ther. 2024;46 Suppl 6:S272. doi:10.1016/j.htct.2024.09.2479

We explored the impact of N-acetylcysteine, an antioxidant, on the preservation of cold-stored platelets. The study focused on understanding how this treatment might reduce the harmful effects caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during cold storage.

Platelet concentrates were categorized into three groups: those stored at room temperature, those kept cold, and those cold-stored with added N-acetylcysteine at varying concentrations. After five days of storage, we measured ROS production, lipid peroxidation, platelet activation, and other quality indicators.

Our findings highlighted that N-acetylcysteine effectively diminished the production of ROS, thus protecting the cold-stored platelets from damage and premature clearance by the immune system in both lab settings and live models. Importantly, using the right amount of N-acetylcysteine significantly improved the survival of these platelets in circulation.

Overall, this study sheds light on the potential benefits of incorporating antioxidants in platelet storage practices to enhance their functionality and longevity.

Prevents bronchitis

Most Useful Review

158 people found this helpful

I was sceptical about this Life Extension N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) given other brands I'd had. However, it worked as hoped during my cold, preventing bronchitis. As someone with early emphysema and COPD, I use it at the first sign of a cold to avoid doctor visits. This will be my go-to NAC, as it’s effective and reasonably priced.

Endometriosis details

Effective treatment confirmed

My wife can attest to NAC's effectiveness in alleviating endometriosis-related pain. We're both very pleased!

Flu details

Jain E, Alex R, Coutinho T, Narula N. Utility of N-acetylcysteine in Non-Acetaminophen-Induced Liver Injury Secondary to Influenza A Infection. Cureus. 2024;16:e70900. doi:10.7759/cureus.70900

Likely Very Effective

NAC shows promise for liver injury

We observed a fascinating case involving the use of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) to treat a young female patient who experienced acute liver injury during an influenza A infection. This situation raised a compelling question: Could NAC, typically known for addressing liver damage from acetaminophen, also provide benefits in other contexts?

Our findings highlighted that NAC is being explored for its potential effects on liver health during viral infections like influenza A. This is particularly intriguing given that the patient was facing impending liver failure, a serious complication often associated with such viral illnesses. By utilizing intravenous NAC, the patient showed a positive response.

Although the specific details of the study's methodology, such as control groups or blinding, were not provided, the outcome suggests promising effects of NAC in treating liver injury linked to viral infections. This case may pave the way for further research into NAC’s effectiveness for flu-related liver complications.

Quick cold relief

Most Useful Review

27 people found this helpful

I bought this supplement to prepare for the cold and flu season and resorted to it sooner than expected when I caught my husband's cold. On 1/31, I started feeling ill and by the next day had congested sinuses and chest issues. I began taking a 600mg capsule twice daily, and by 2/5, I was back to work, feeling much better! Normally, colds linger, causing upper respiratory infections, but this product helped me recover quickly without needing antibiotics. This is a record for me!

Sinusitis details

NAC's role in sinusitis unclear

Gurov AV, Yushkina MA, Muzhichkova AV. [Postviral rhinosinusitis, focus on pathogenetic therapy]. Vestn Otorinolaringol. 2023;88:38. doi:10.17116/otorino20228803138

We examined how n-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) might impact those suffering from sinusitis, especially following a viral infection. This condition, known as post-viral rhinosinusitis, can be tricky due to overlapping symptoms with bacterial sinusitis, making diagnosis challenging.

In our review of current literature, we found that while NAC is included in combined treatments for sinusitis, determining its standalone effectiveness is complex. The treatment typically involves other components as well, notably a vasoconstrictor, which complicates our ability to attribute success to NAC alone.

Our analysis led us to conclude that despite the potential benefits of using NAC for sinusitis due to its mucolytic properties, the isolated benefits remain unclear. More targeted research is necessary to truly understand the role of this compound in managing sinusitis effectively.

Effective for inflammation

Most Useful Review

10 people found this helpful

Life Extension N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine is excellent without unnecessary fillers. NAC has impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding those with respiratory diseases and sinusitis. It can help reduce bacterial infections, and I experienced no side effects. This is a quality product.

Diarrhea details

NAC improves rifaximin treatment outcomes

Likely Very Effective

Leite G, Rezaie A, Morales W, Weitsman S, de Freitas Germano J, et al. Low dose rifaximin combined with N-acetylcysteine is superior to rifaximin alone in a rat model of IBS-D: a randomized trial. Sci Rep. 2024;14:18140. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-69162-4

In our exploration of new treatment options for diarrhea, we found that combining n-acetylcysteine (NAC) with rifaximin might improve outcomes for patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D). The study involved a validated rat model, where we assessed the effects of various combinations of these treatments after inducing IBS-D with a specific toxin.

We observed that when rats were treated with rifaximin alone, their stool consistency and bacterial levels did not significantly improve compared to those that received a placebo. However, those treated with rifaximin combined with NAC showed marked improvements. Their stool consistency normalized, and the levels of harmful bacteria, including E. coli, were significantly reduced.

Furthermore, the combined treatment also led to a normalization of cytokine levels, which are molecules linked to inflammation and diarrhea. This suggests that NAC not only supports the action of rifaximin but may also enhance overall treatment effectiveness for IBS-D. Our findings highlight the promising potential of using NAC alongside rifaximin to better manage diarrhea symptoms in affected patients.

Intense diarrhea

Most Useful Review

3 people found this helpful

Diarrhoea! It gave me intense diarrhoea.

Allergies details

Sinus infections reduced

13 people found this helpful

I take one tablet daily to manage allergies during spring and autumn, and it has also significantly reduced my sinus infections in winter. Since starting NAC, I rarely get sinus infections, whereas I used to suffer from three each winter.

Asthma details

Improved breathing capacity

130 people found this helpful

If you have asthma, COPD, chronic bronchitis, or begin to feel a cold affecting your chest, take it! I’ve struggled with chronic allergies leading to chest problems. Since taking two a day, I could blow up pool floats easily for the first time in years! I know it was N-Acetyl Cysteine that made the difference. I highly recommend it for anyone with breathing difficulties!

Diabetes details

Helps type 1 diabetes

This supplement significantly aids my management of type 1 diabetes.

Hashimoto details

Fantastic! Hashimoto responded well to this NAC! I would repurchase.

Lung Cancer details

36 people found this helpful

This superb antioxidant arrived promptly and has proven effective. Within a week, I felt its benefits, especially its mucolytic properties to help clear phlegm from my lungs.

Bacterial Infection details

Eases lung inflammation

14 people found this helpful

NAC is beneficial for alleviating inflammation and mucus, particularly for those with chronic bronchitis or COPD. It breaks down mucus, reducing airway damage and making breathing easier while boosting glutathione, a protective antioxidant against infections. It's best taken with vitamin C.

Sleep Apnea details

6 people found this helpful

Very great! I had a persistently congested chest from smoking and just two days after starting this wonderful supplement, I was able to sleep again without being troubled by the wheezing in my chest. My breathing is much better now, and I can't live without it anymore. I have tested other brands, but this one had the best effect.

Adenoiditis details

Excellent! I’ve taken NAC regularly for several years, one capsule daily after meals. Many reputable doctors and nutritionists believe this is the best supplement available. My menstrual cycle has become regular at 28 days, previously it was 33-35 days with interruptions due to stress. NAC keeps me energetic; after a break, I felt lethargic. Resuming its intake restored my energy. Furthermore, it effectively clears my respiratory tract. I previously struggled with sputum accumulation in my throat, but with NAC, that’s all gone. My husband also appreciates its benefits, especially during Covid. I trust this brand and am satisfied with its quality. Stay healthy!

Chronic Cough details

103 people found this helpful

This drug is highly effective, addressing sputum and cough within just 5-7 days—leaving no trace of illness. The taste resembles a sour ACC but is not unpleasant. I thoroughly enjoyed this quality analogue and recommend everyone to try it, while being mindful of contraindications!

Candidiasis details

Effective for lung health

2 people found this helpful

This is a very effective drug! I took it as directed by my nutritionist to assist in eliminating the Candidiasis biofilm. I appreciated the effect it had. It also significantly helped with phlegm and cough, which I found beneficial for the lungs. I even gave it to my dad during COVID, and everything resolved in five days, likely due to this drug.

Food Poisoning details

This is an excellent product with a great composition. I used it after suffering from heavy metal food poisoning, and it provided significant relief.

Liver Disease details

49 people found this helpful

NAC is essential in any medicine cabinet, particularly during a pandemic. Besides helping to expel mucus, it positively impacts the liver, promoting detoxification and glutathione production. I have tried NAC from various brands, and I highly commend this one from Life Extension.

Nausea details

Excellent! I was recommended this for liver health; it's easy to swallow unlike powder products that cause nausea. The benefits are tremendous. Highly recommended.

Kidney Stones details