OCD is a debilitating psychiatric condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). Studies show that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) for OCD can be used as an alternative treatment.
Glutamate dysfunction may contribute to the development of OCD. Studies show that NAC is a glutamate-modulating drug that primarily targets glutamatergic system dysfunctions and modulates inflammatory cytokines.
Around 2-3 million adults are affected by OCD and are moving towards NAC due to its ability to replenish levels of the antioxidant glutathione, which also regulates the important neurotransmitter glutamate. Therefore, it is well known as a glutamate modulator with promising therapeutic effects.
Additionally, NAC helps the body’s detoxification system. These functions make NAC supplements a viable treatment option for OCD. It is advised to consult a healthcare provider before starting the supplement to get a proper treatment plan according to the patient’s needs.
What is NAC?
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a supplement form of cysteine. It comes from the amino acid L-cysteine, which helps produce glutathione.
NAC is a conditionally essential amino acid having many health benefits such as replenishing antioxidants. It is considered ‘conditionally essential’ because the body can produce it from other present amino acids. Studies show that it becomes essential only when the dietary intake of methionine and serine is low.
Cysteine can be naturally found in most high-protein foods, such as chicken, turkey, yogurt, cheese, eggs, sunflower seeds, and legumes. It is important to consume adequate cysteine and NAC to treat various health conditions.
Studies show that NAC can help in treating chronic bronchitis by thinning mucus. It also helps with protecting cells, fertility, and brain health.
NAC Mechanism of Action
NAC supports many biological functions in the brain hypothesized to be implicated in OCD, such as the modulation of dopamine release and the reduction in inflammatory cytokine formation.
There are some other functions of NAC like reduction of oxidative stress and the re‐establishment of glutamatergic balance. All these properties can lead to an increase in growth factors, such as brain‐derived neurotrophic factors, and the regulation of neuronal cell death through B‐cell lymphoma 2 expression.
NAC can prevent damage caused by excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body, as high levels of ROS can be harmful. It has been observed that high levels of glutamate can lead to OCD and anxiety symptoms. Therefore, NAC reduces the level of glutamate release and helps in improving these symptoms.
Some of the key steps of the mechanism of action of NAC are mentioned below:
Absorption:
After ingestion, NAC is absorbed in the digestive system and converted to cysteine. Here, cysteine works as a precursor to glutathione.
Glutathione production:
Cysteine helps in increasing the levels of glutathione in the body. Glutathione is a key antioxidant in the brain that neutralizes oxidative stress and protects brain cells from damage. This process helps in improving mental health by reducing OCD symptoms.
Glutamate modulation:
In the next step, NAC modulates glutamate levels by influencing cysteine-glutamate exchange. Studies show that excessive levels of glutamate can lead to overstimulation in the brain and contribute to obsessive-compulsive thoughts. NAC helps in balancing the brain’s signaling system by reducing glutamate levels.
Inflammation reduction:
Inflammation in the brain can also lead to OCD. Studies show that NAC can reduce inflammation in the brain and protect the neurons from damage.
Dopamine regulation:
NAC influences dopamine levels which is responsible for mood regulation. This helps in reducing compulsive urges and managing OCD symptoms.
NAC Benefits
NAC supplements have multiple potential benefits. The main benefits of NAC come from the supplement’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants are compounds that help in fighting with diseases in the body. Whereas, anti-inflammatories reduce swelling and irritation in the body’s tissues. Antioxidant properties can also help in managing chronic health conditions and overall well-being.
Some of the key benefits of NAC are mentioned below:
Respiratory health:
Studies show that NAC can help in treating chronic respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It clears the airway pathway by thinning the mucus. It has been observed that NAC can help in improving breathing in chronic bronchitis and other lung conditions.
Liver protection:
NAC can protect the liver from damage by replenishing glutathione levels in the liver. Glutathione is one of the body’s most important antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and tissues. Studies show that NAC can also protect liver in the cases of overdose.
Mental health support:
It has been observed that NAC can help in supporting mental health conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). NAC helps in balancing the levels of glutathione in the brain which is associated with stress response. In the cases of bipolar disorder and depression, it can decrease the symptoms and improve the quality of life.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory effects:
NAC has antioxidant properties that help in fighting oxidative stress. These properties reduce the risk of conditions linked to oxidative damage such as heart disease and other age-related illnesses. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help in promoting overall well-being.
Immune system support:
Studies show that NAC supports the immune system by boosting glutathione levels and protecting cells from damage. Antioxidants help support the body’s natural immune system and toxin-elimination processes. It is beneficial at the time of illness or in the case of weak immunity system and contribute to faster recovery.
Brain health support:
NAC protects the brain from oxidative stress and slows down cognitive decline in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. NAC helps in regulating glutamate levels and replenish glutathione. Here, the neurotransmitter glutamate is involved in a broad range of learning, behavior, and memory functions, while the antioxidant glutathione helps reduce brain cell oxidative damage associated with aging.
Fertility support:
Studies show that NAC can help in improving reproductive health both in men and women. It can be used to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOD) in women and promotes regular ovulation. Many male infertility issues increase when antioxidant levels are insufficient to address free radical formation in the reproductive system. In such cases, NAC can help due to its antioxidant properties.
Cardiovascular health:
NAC can also promote cardiovascular health by reducing oxidative stress in the blood vessels and helping in better blood flow.
NAC for OCD Intrusive Thoughts
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted and distressing thoughts usually observed in OCD. Studies show that NAC can regulate the levels of glutamate which is a neurotransmitter responsible for obsessive thinking and compulsive behavior.
It has been observed that people with OCD symptoms have excessive glutamate levels in certain areas of the brain that can contribute to intrusive thoughts. By balancing these glutamate levels NAC can help in reducing these intrusive thoughts.
NAC OCD Treatment
Studies show that NAC can be used to treat OCD symptoms. It is an amino acid supplement that can balance the level of glutamate in the brain, which is responsible for regulating mood and behavior. Treating this condition is important so that individuals can regain control over their lives and comfortably perform their daily activities.
Research indicates that the effectiveness of NAC can vary from person to person. What works well for one individual may not be as effective for another. Therefore, treatment usually depends on the severity of the condition but it is advised to consult a healthcare provider before starting the supplement.
NAC can help in the following ways to treat OCD symptoms:
Regulates glutamate levels in the brain:
Studies show that NAC balances the glutamate levels, which are responsible for anxiety and compulsive behavior. OCD symptoms are caused due to excessive levels of glutamate in the brain. NAC stabilizes glutamate levels and helps in alleviating OCD symptoms.
Reduces oxidative stress:
Sometimes oxidative stress can cause OCD symptoms leading to inflammation. In such cases, NAC uses its antioxidant properties to protect brain cells from damage. This process helps in reducing the intensity of OCD symptoms.
Improves brain connectivity:
Studies show that NAC can improve connectivity in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for decision-making and emotional regulation.
Supports traditional treatment:
NAC is used alongside other traditional treatment plans such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). NAC enhances the effect of these therapies which help individuals to get maximum benefits from these primary treatment plans.
NAC Supplement for OCD
Living with OCD is quite challenging as it disrupts daily life activities. Untreated OCD can cause long-term consequences. Studies show that NAC supplements can reduce the intensity of OCD symptoms. It was traditionally used to treat cystic fibrosis, acetaminophen overdose, and chronic obstructive lung disease. It is well known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. NAC supplements can also be used to treat other psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and OCD.
NAC Dosage for OCD
Studies show no specific dietary recommendation for cysteine because the body can produce small amounts. However, an adequate amount of folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 is required for the body to make the amino acid cysteine. These nutrients can be found in beans, lentils, spinach, bananas, salmon, and tuna.
NAC is not absorbed well in the body due to its low bioavailability as an oral supplement. The accepted daily supplement recommendation is 600–1,800 mg of NAC. It can be administered intravenously or orally, as an aerosol spray, or in liquid or powder form.
The recommended dosage of NAC for pregnant and breastfeeding women should be decided by their healthcare providers for appropriate dosage.
NAC for OCD Side Effects
NAC is generally safe for adults when provided as a prescription medication but it is important to be aware of potential side effects and safety considerations. However, high amounts may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Inhalation of NAC solutions can cause swelling in the mouth, runny nose, drowsiness, and chest tightness. People with bleeding disorders or taking blood thinning medications should avoid taking NAC because it may slow the blood clotting process.
Some of the side effects of NAC for OCD are mentioned below:
Gastrointestinal Issues :
NAC can cause stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea. These symptoms are generally mild to moderate. However, severe symptoms can be observed in the cases of higher doses.
Headaches :
Some people often report symptoms of headaches but eventually these symptoms fade with lower doses of NAC.
Fatigue :
Sometimes people feel tired after taking NAC supplements. The body takes some time to adjust to supplements. Therefore these symptoms usually alleviate on their own as the body adjusts to the supplement.
Skin Rash :
Skin rashes can occur in rare cases. In such cases, it is advised to stop taking supplements and consult a healthcare provider.
Low Blood Pressure :
NAC can lower blood pressure, leading to dizziness. It is not that severe but can make a person feel uncomfortable.
FAQ
How long does NAC take to Work for OCD?
NAC does not work instantly, it takes some time to give significant results. Treatment length depends on the severity of OCD symptoms. Research indicates a reduction of OCD symptoms within four to eight weeks.
Is NAC for OCD treatment safe?
NAC is generally considered safe with mild to moderate side effects. It is approved as a mucolytic for bronchitis and asthma and research is still ongoing for mental health disorders. Most people who have used NAC only experience minor side effects like stomach upset which means the body can tolerate it in manageable doses. It is recommended to consult a doctor or mental health professional before taking NAC.
Conclusion
NAC is a promising complementary treatment for OCD. Due to its ability to modulate glutamate levels and combat oxidative stress in the brain, it offers a unique approach to treating OCD symptoms, particularly for those who have not found enough relief through traditional treatments.
However, it is important to remember that NAC is not a magical medicine and it should be considered as a part of a comprehensive treatment approach that may include, therapy sessions, medications, and other lifestyle modifications.
Although, obsessive compulsive disorder causes a lot of distress. Help is available. If you or a loved one requires treatment for OCD visit our homepage to book an appointment.
I am not sure if I am reading this correctly when it comes to NAC. For an adult between 18-64 you are recommending 12-18 grams of NAC per day? That seems like an awful lot. The supplements I am taking are saying a max of 3 grams orally. Does this do anything for ocd? Thanks
Dear Sigmund,
Thank you for pointing out such an important detail. We acknowledge the misinformation, which was not intended, and have improved the facts on the blog. We would like to emphasize that 12–18 grams dosage of NAC should be reserved for acute medical scenarios, such as detoxification in acetaminophen overdose or severe oxidative stress.
Regards,
Team GABA Telepsychiatry