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Description

NAC supplies N-acetyl-L-cysteine, a derivative of L-Cysteine, which is more stable and better absorbed than L-Cysteine. NAC functions as a powerful antioxidant. As a precursor to intracellular glutathione synthesis, it is essential for glutathione synthesis. Glutathione is a critical component of the immune system, as it is an important intracellular water-soluble antioxidant. As part of this function, glutathione plays a vital role as a cofactor for the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and glutathione transferase. Glutathione is also important for the liver, as the liver uses it for drug detoxification. As a cysteine metabolite, NAC plays an important role in detoxification and is hepatoprotective. NAC works in protecting cells against oxidative stress and contributes to important bodily reactions. As such, it is part of the defensive mechanism against potential carcinogens, as well as DNA damage. The role of NAC in acetaminophen toxicity is widely documented, however, NAC also contributes to other protective mechanisms, such as drug conjugation and excretion, the destruction of peroxides and free radicals, the maintenance of the NADPH-NADP redox state, acid-base balance, and the synthesis of sulfated compounds. NAC also plays a role in the development of the central nervous system. Numerous studies have been conducted with NAC, with COPD, particularly among patients who smoke. The utilization of NAC in smokers with chronic bronchitis showed a significant reduction in the number of positive bacterial cultures in these patients. {Riise GC, et al. Eur Respir J.1994 Jan; 7 (1): 94-101.} Another study using NAC indicated potential benefits for chronic bronchitis, resulting in a significantly lower exacerbation rate in patients administered NAC, compared to placebo. {Rassmussen, JB & Glennow, C. Eur Respir J. 1988 Apr; 1 (4): 351-5.} Given that it easily passes through cell membranes, NAC has been shown to be easily absorbed. It is also resistant to enzymatic breakdown.
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