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    amino_acid
    beginner
    semi synthetic

    NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)

    Precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. Modulates glutamate and has significant psychiatric research for OCD and addiction.

    6h half-life 30min onset water-soluble budget

    Quick Facts

    Common Dose

    600mg

    Dose Range

    600–1800mg

    Frequency

    1-2x daily on empty stomach

    Half-Life

    6 hours

    Onset

    30 min

    Duration

    8 hours

    Cycling

    Not required

    Legal Status

    otc_supplement

    How It Works

    Provides cysteine for glutathione synthesis. Modulates glutamate via the cystine-glutamate antiporter.

    Neurotransmitter Pathways

    glutamateglutathioneanti_inflammatory

    Effects & Benefits

    neuroprotection
    anti_rumination
    liver_support
    glutamate_modulation

    Dosing Guide

    Beginner
    600mg
    Standard
    600mg
    Advanced
    1800mg

    ⚠️ Start low and increase gradually. Individual responses vary.

    Side Effects & Safety

    Potential Side Effects

    GI upsetSulfurous odorRare: histamine issues

    Contraindications

    AsthmaActive cancer treatment

    Drug Interactions

    nitroglycerinactivated_charcoal

    What the Community Says

    "Widely recommended as a baseline supplement. Strong community support for OCD, rumination, and compulsive behavior reduction."

    very positive
    Community ranking: #14 most discussed

    Based on analysis of r/Nootropics, r/StackAdvice, and r/biohackers

    Research & Evidence

    N-acetylcysteine in psychiatry: current therapeutic evidence

    2011 — Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience

    Evidence supporting efficacy in OCD, addiction, bipolar depression, and schizophrenia

    PubMed

    Best Stacked With

    Where to Buy

    Estimated cost: $10/month

    Cycling Protocol

    No cycling required — can be taken daily.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

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