N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) and Allergies

Glutathione (GSH) is a naturally occurring tripeptide that protects every cell from toxic free radicals. It contains the three amino acids glycine, glutamic acid, and cysteine. N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) is an acetylated ester of the amino acid, cysteine. NAC has a powerful effect on raising glutathione levels in the body. In fact, it has been found more potent than giving glutathione itself. For many years, NAC has been used in the treatment of bronchitis and other lung conditions as an expectorant or mucous thinner as well as for its anti-inflammatory effects. NAC is also the treatment of choice to reduce the toxicity of acetaminophen, particularly when toxic doses are present. NAC has been shown to enhance T-cell function. NAC should be taken in a dose of 600 mg once daily. NAC should be accompanied by vitamin C, 1000 mg or more per 600 mg of NAC, to maintain its effectiveness.

As noted, L-glutathione may be taken as a supplement, however, NAC as a precursor to glutathione may naturally raise glutathione to optimal levels more readily than glutathione itself taken orally. Intravenous glutathione has been used by Dr. Perlmutter in the treatment of neurological conditions, raising the possibility that similar therapy may be of value in certain severe allergic/immunological conditions, such as severe asthma (Perlmutter 2000). Studies have indicated a causal role for oxidative stress in asthma and in contact dermatitis. Glutathione, NAC, and other antioxidants are recommended to counter oxidation (Willis et al. 2001).

IgE antibodies are involved in hay fever, asthma, anaphylactic shock, and atopic skin disease (e.g., eczema). Interleukin 4 (IL-4) is a factor in the production of IgE antibodies. A study by Bengtsson et al. 2001 showed supplementation with NAC and glutathione lowered levels of IL-4 and enhanced T-cell proliferation. Nitric oxide (NO) in expired air is a good indicator of the severity of respiratory diseases such as asthma, emphysema, and cystic fibrosis (Corradi et al. 2001). Glutathione binds with NO to create nitrosothiols (RS-NOS). This binding can help reduce the inflammatory effects of NO. Future studies should give a better picture of how effective this may be.