Effects of N-acetylcysteine on outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Bronchitis Randomized on NAC Cost-Utility Study, BRONCUS): a randomised placebo-controlled trial
Decramer M, Rutten-van Molken M, Dekhuijzen PN, Troosters T, van Herwaarden C, Pellegrino R, van Schayck CP, Olivieri D, Del Donno M, De Backer W, Lankhorst I, Ardia A
Published in The Lancet
Methodology
Three-year multicentre randomised placebo-controlled trial of N-acetylcysteine 600 mg once daily in patients with COPD, with rate of decline in FEV1 and exacerbation rate as co-primary endpoints.
Key Findings
N-acetylcysteine did not slow the decline in FEV1 and did not reduce exacerbation rates overall, though a subgroup not using inhaled corticosteroids showed fewer exacerbations.
Conclusions
Once-daily N-acetylcysteine was ineffective for disease progression in COPD.
Limitations
Dose may have been too low; high background inhaled corticosteroid use may have masked benefit; subgroup finding exploratory.
Supplements Studied
N-acetylcysteine did not slow the decline in FEV1 and did not reduce exacerbation rates overall.
Outcomes Measured
N-acetylcysteine did not reduce the yearly decline in FEV1 or the exacerbation rate overall.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Zambon Group with European academic centres
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