NAC (N-acetyl cysteine)
13 products
NAC (N-acetyl-L-cysteine) is a modified form of the amino acid cysteine. Here you will find NAC supplements in several strengths and blends with selenium or molybdenum.
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13 products
Other antioxidantsSwanson
N-Acetyl Cysteine, 600mg - 100 capsules
100 caps, best before May 2029
€12.90
Other antioxidantsLife Extension
N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine, 600mg - 60 capsules
60 caps, best before Apr 2028
€11.50
Other antioxidantsHolland & Barrett
Precision Engineered N-Acetyl Cysteine 600mg 30 Caps
30 caps, best before Dec 2027
€4.55
Other antioxidantsAllnutrition
N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) 150 mg
NAC, 150mg
90 caps, best before Oct 2027
€5.75
What is NAC?
NAC stands for N-acetyl-L-cysteine, or N-acetyl cysteine. It is a modified form of the sulphur-containing amino acid cysteine, with an acetyl group attached. Cysteine is a building block of proteins and of glutathione. NAC is produced synthetically and in food supplements is mostly sold as capsules.
No health claims for NAC are authorised in the EU. This page therefore covers amounts, forms and combinations.
On its own or combined?
- Pure NAC: usually 150 mg, 500 mg or 600 mg per capsule.
- With selenium: selenium contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.
- With molybdenum: molybdenum contributes to normal sulphur amino acid metabolism.
- With plants and amino acids: for example with silymarin from milk thistle, glutathione or L-ornithine L-aspartate (LOLA).
Our range
- 600 mg: Life Extension N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine, Swanson N-Acetyl Cysteine, Holland & Barrett Precision Engineered N-Acetyl Cysteine and NOW Foods NAC with selenium.
- 150 mg: Essensey NAC and Allnutrition NAC.
- Other brands: Cytoplan NAC, OstroVit NAC (also the Natural version), Apollo's Hegemony NAC and Doctor's Best.
- Combinations: Osavi NAC with selenium and molybdenum, and Osavi Glutathione with Silymarin, NAC and LOLA.
What to look for
- Amount per capsule: between 150 and 600 mg – compare the daily serving.
- Smell: NAC smells slightly of sulphur. That is normal.
- Combinations: check which minerals or plant extracts are included as well, so you do not double up.
- Medicines: if you take medicines or are pregnant, ask your doctor first.
Follow the dose on the label. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet.
Frequently asked questions
Is NAC the same as cysteine?
Not quite. NAC is an acetylated form of L-cysteine, so a chemically modified version.
Why does NAC smell of sulphur?
NAC contains sulphur. A faint smell when you open the tub is typical.
Which NAC is the best?
We do not hand out awards. Compare the amount per capsule, the extras and the manufacturer instead.