Is NAC a Nootropic?
October 24, 2023
Nootropic supplements are becoming more widely used in the United States. Some people take them as prescribed medications, whereas others may use them as alternatives to controlled substances, depending on the nootropic. They can be natural anti-anxiety supplements, sleep aids, and support concentration and focus.
Americans are starting to utilIze the benefits of a supplement called NAC, but is this considered a nootropic? We’ll explore that, as well as everything you need to know about this substance.
What Are Nootropics?
Nootropics are any substances that are said to improve cognitive function and mental health (1). Also known as ‘smart drugs,’ you can find them in the form of prescription medication, over-the counter-dietary supplements, and synthetic compounds. They can come as pills, tablets, teas, gummies, and other forms.
With so many supplements on the market, you may be under the impression that many of them are nootropics. For example, is L-theanine a nootropic? This popular amino acid is indeed considered one.
Many nootropics are not regulated by the FDA, with the exception of prescription nootropics. Therefore, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional about possible drug interactions.
You may be wondering if you can take nootropics with antidepressants? It’s possible for them to interact with your medication (2), so if you’re concerned about whether these supplements are right for you, have a conversation with your doctor.
What is NAC?
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant that comes from an amino acid. Healthcare providers administer it because it can sometimes treat acetaminophen (Tylenol) poisoning; it may also reduce irritability in children with autism (3). While NAC is currently FDA-approved, it’s possible that the FDA will reconsider their approval (4).
As a dietary supplement, studies show that NAC may be effective in helping those with depression, schizophrenia, skin-picking disorders, and OCD (5). Additionally, there are promising studies that claim it can help individuals wean off of cannabis and nicotine (5). These are all encouraging for those seeking supplements to improve their mental health.
So, Is NAC a Nootropic?
While NAC is not primarily used as a nootropic, it sometimes acts as one. Its primary uses are medical in nature, not necessarily to increase cognitive function or improve mental health. When a supplement is used for these purposes, though, it’s considered a nootropic.
Studies in younger mice show that NAC was effective as a nootropic, but these results weren’t seen in older mice (6). Additionally, the supplement’s ability to replenish glutamate and glutathione may have benefits for brain health–it may be helpful for people with conditions like Alzheimer’s (7). These findings support NAC’s use as a nootropic and for its use in other medical concerns.
In Conclusion
NAC is an FDA-approved nootropic that is used both in medical settings and as a dietary supplement. It’s being used more often to improve cognitive function and mental health, and it may help you, too. Right now, NAC is available to buy over-the-counter, so get it while you can.
Legal Disclaimer
This product has not been approved by the US FDA. All statements on this page are for informational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the US FDA.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. See more
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/features/nootropics-smart-drugs-overview
- https://www.vagarights.com/can-you-take-nootropics-with-anti-depressants/
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1018/n-acetyl-cysteine-nac
- https://www.fda.gov/food/cfsan-constituent-updates/fda-releases-final-guidance-enforcement-discretion-certain-nac-products
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27766914/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30770531/#:~:text=Conclusions%3A%20The%20findings%20of%20this,cognitive%20impairments%20in%20older%20mice
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nac-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_6
No Comments 
