Who should not take the NAC supplement?

Understanding N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a supplement derived from the amino acid cysteine, known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties and support for respiratory health. However, while NAC can be beneficial for many, it is not suitable for everyone. Understanding who should avoid this supplement is crucial for safe and effective use.
Who Should Avoid NAC?
1. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should exercise caution with NAC. The safety of NAC during pregnancy and lactation has not been firmly established, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use.
2. Children: The appropriate dosage of NAC for children has not been well-defined. Therefore, it is recommended that parents refrain from giving NAC to children unless specifically directed by a healthcare professional.
3. Individuals on Blood Thinners or Blood Pressure Medications: NAC may enhance the effects of certain medications, particularly those that lower blood pressure or act as blood thinners. This interaction could lead to an increased risk of bleeding or hypotension, making it essential for individuals on these medications to avoid NAC unless under medical supervision.
4. People with Allergies to NAC or Similar Compounds: Those who have a known allergy to NAC or related compounds should avoid this supplement to prevent allergic reactions, which can range from mild to severe.
5. Individuals with Certain Medical Conditions: People with specific health conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), should consult their healthcare provider before taking NAC. While NAC is often used to help with respiratory issues, it can sometimes cause bronchospasm in sensitive individuals.
6. Those Undergoing Surgery: If you are scheduled for surgery, it is advisable to stop taking NAC at least two weeks prior to the procedure. NAC can affect blood clotting, which may complicate surgical outcomes.
Conclusion
While NAC offers various health benefits, it is not universally safe for everyone. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, individuals on certain medications, and those with specific health conditions should approach NAC with caution. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you fall into one of these categories. This ensures that you can safely navigate your health journey while maximizing the benefits of any supplements you choose to incorporate.

What should you not mix with NAC?

Possible Interactions

• Medications that suppress the immune system. Treatment with NAC may strengthen the effects of some medications that suppress the immune system, such as azathioprine (Imuran), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), or prednisone (Deltasone).
• Nitroglycerin and isosorbide.
• Oxiconazole.
• Activated charcoal.

Is NAC or milk thistle better for the liver?

Your choice will depend on your needs and preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a supplement to support your liver and immune health (more on this later), NAC would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for liver-focused support, milk thistle would be a good option.

Is NAC hard on the liver?

When administered after ethanol, NAC might behave as a pro-oxidant and aggravate acute ethanol-induced liver damage.

Does NAC mess with your hormones?

On top of that, studies show that NAC can block the activity of an enzyme called aromatase. This enzyme turns testosterone into estrogen, which can be a problem for people with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Are there any dangers to taking NAC?

When taken by mouth: N-acetyl cysteine is likely safe for most adults. N-acetyl cysteine is an FDA-approved prescription drug. It can cause side effects such as dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It has an unpleasant odor that some people find hard to tolerate.

What medications should not be taken with NAC?

Treatment with NAC may strengthen the effects of some medications that suppress the immune system, such as azathioprine (Imuran), cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), or prednisone (Deltasone). Do not take NAC with these medications without talking to your doctor first.

Is it okay to take NAC every day?

You may take NAC daily for a short time, but research about the safety of taking NAC every day for the long term is limited. A 2021 literature review found that most studies use it with specific therapeutic goals between 6 weeks and 6 months. Toxicity from NAC intake is rare, particularly in low doses.

Who should avoid NAC?

Ask your doctor which supplements are right for you, but NAC may not not be safe for people who: Bleed easily. NAC may raise your odds of bleeding problems if you have a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia or you take blood-thinning drugs.

Does NAC affect your heart?

In patients with cardiac surgery, NAC decreases diabetes-associated cardiovascular, cardiopulmonary bypass, and cardiac surgery complications, including early reperfusion injury, pump-induced inflammatory response, and myocardial stress [21,22,23].

Why would NAC be banned?

According to the FDA, since NAC was not widely used as a dietary supplement before its use as a drug, it is basically unlawful.