N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) for Sinus Relief
NAC thins secretions, which helps drainage in thick chronic mucus but is not a treatment for sinusitis.
Overview
Verdict
How It Works
Dosing & Protocol
Typical dose
- Recommended dose
- 600mg twice daily
- Expected timeframe
- 2-4 weeks
Protocol
- form
- Not applicable
- duration
- Not applicable
- co factor
- Evidence is insufficient. The rationale is reasonable - NAC is an established mucolytic that cleaves disulfide bonds in mucin glycoproteins and reduces secretion viscosity, and thick secretions with impaired mucociliary clearance are central to chronic rhinosinusitis. Some small studies of nebulised or topical NAC in sinus disease, and mechanistic work on its antibiofilm activity against bacteria in sinus cavities, are suggestive. But there is no adequately powered randomised placebo-controlled trial of oral NAC for acute or chronic sinusitis measuring symptom scores, endoscopic findings or quality of life, and mucolytics in general have not demonstrated benefit in sinusitis in the way they have in chronic bronchitis.
- titration
- Not applicable
- starting dose
- Not applicable as an established treatment for sinus symptoms
Evidence
What the studies say
No studies are yet linked to both N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and Sinus Relief.
Safety
Caveats
Nausea is common. Saline irrigation has better evidence for sinuses.
Less likely to help if
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.
Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.