Recently, studies have suggested that taking a daily dose of N-Acetyl Cystine may be helpful in the prevention of serious side effects from COVID-19. N-Acetyl Cystine, a supplement form of cystine, is important for a variety of health reasons, including replenishing the most powerful antioxidant in your body, glutathione. NAC can also help with chronic respiratory conditions, fertility and brain health. NAC can relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions by acting as an antioxidant and expectorant, loosening mucus in your air passageways. As an antioxidant, NAC helps replenish glutathione levels in your lungs and reduces inflammation in your bronchial tubes and lung tissue. People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) experience long-term oxidative damage and inflammation of lung tissue, which causes airways to constrict — leading to shortness of breath and coughing. NAC supplements have been used to improve COPD symptoms, exacerbations and lung decline. By thinning mucus in your bronchial tubes and boosting glutathione levels, NAC may help decrease the severity and frequency of wheezing, coughing and respiratory attacks. Though further research is encouraged, anecdotal studies using NAC in conjunction with other treatments for COVID-19 show promise.
A pharmaceutical grade N-Acetyl Cystine supplement can be purchased from the Tarnow Center for $30 per bottle. It is recommended to take two capsules, in the morning, with food.