NAC replenishes and maintains hepatic GSH stores by providing cysteine, the substrate which detoxifies reactive metabolites of APAP.23,24,56,75 In addition, it may reduce NAPQI back to APAP by enhancing the sulfonation pathway of APAP metabolism.56,75 Administering NAC to patients with APAP overdose may reduce mortality from 5% to 0.7% of patients, and thus timely administration is critical.71 Table 2 lists commonly accepted indications for treatment with NAC in the setting of acute over-ingestion
Nutritional considerations for dietitians British Dietetic Association
By introducing a brief, 30-minute signal, it amplifies the natural pulses without forcing the pituitary into a state of continuous, non-physiological hyper-secretion
A favorable vote therefore should not be interpreted as scientific consensus that each substance is proven safe and effective
Laufer 2003
The systemic contribution from injection reduces the need for aggressive topical concentration