N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) for Helicobacter pylori Infection
CNAC (600-1,200 mg/day) may improve H. pylori eradication rates by disrupting biofilm. Small studies show improved eradication when combined with standard therapy.
The Bottom Line
NAC (600-1,200 mg/day) may improve H. pylori eradication rates by disrupting biofilm. Small studies show improved eradication when combined with standard therapy.
Key Study Findings
Population: None
Population: Published erratum (correction notice)
Population: None
Population: Cancer patients
Population: Mice
Population: None
Key Statistics
3
Studies
250
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 600-1,200 mg/day in divided doses
- hpyloriadjunct:
- 600 mg twice daily alongside standard triple therapy
- antioxidantsupport:
- 600-900 mg/day
Upper limit: Generally well-tolerated up to 1,800 mg/day; higher doses used in clinical settings
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIC 11 μg/mL | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Negative | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
Best taken: With or without food; divide doses throughout the day
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Nausea and vomiting (most common, especially at higher doses)
- ⚠ Diarrhea
- ⚠ Unpleasant sulfur taste/odor
- ⚠ Headache
Known Interactions
- ● Nitroglycerin (NAC may enhance vasodilatory effects; risk of hypotension)
- ● Activated charcoal (may reduce NAC absorption)
- ● Anticoagulants (NAC may have mild antiplatelet effects)
- ● ACE inhibitors (additive hypotensive effect with nitroglycerin combination)
Tolerable upper intake: Generally well-tolerated up to 1,800 mg/day; higher doses used in clinical settings
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) help with Helicobacter pylori Infection?
How much N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) should I take for Helicobacter pylori Infection?
Are there side effects of N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)?
How strong is the evidence for N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and Helicobacter pylori Infection?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Helicobacter pylori Infection
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.