Information for Patients Taking N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

This is an excerpt from a document titled "Information for Patients Taking N-Acetylcysteine" that was written by Dr. B.J. Wilder at the University of Florida.

"Many neurodegenerative conditions are now thought to be caused by toxic chemicals called "free radicals" that can damage nerve membranes and other vital parts of the brain. Excess formation of free radicals can arise either from an overproduction of these chemicals or from a relative lack of other chemicals called "antioxidants" that neutralize free radical action.

For the past 2 years [study was reported in 1995], we have been using N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) as a treatment for some neurodegenerative conditions. NAC is a drug that has been around for years. It was used previously for treatment of cystic fibrosis and is presently used for acute overdosage of Tylenol, which if left untreated, can lead to severe liver damage and death.

The reason NAC is effective in preventing Tylenol-induced liver damage is the same reason suggesting its use in neurodegenerative conditions, i.e. NAC is one of the most effective agents available for scavenging free radicals."

"Suggested vitamin and mineral supplements (for adults) include:

Magnesium - 50-400 mg/ day  (don't take with the NAC)
Selenium - 100 mcg/day
Vitamin E (D-Alpha tocopheryl) - 400-800 U/day
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) - 25-50 mg/day.