N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC)

An analog of the amino acid l-cysteine.  NAC is a drug used to a) help dissolve mucus and treat inflammation in respiratory conditions; b) protect against radiocontrast-induced nephropathy; and c) to treat acetaminophen toxicity.  It’s also taken as an oral supplement, as it’s a precursor to glutathione, a potent endogenous antioxidant.  NAC may also have neuroprotective effects in brain injury and exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs.