n-acetyl-L-cysteine

N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (CAS 616-91-1) is a stabilized, acetylated form of the amino acid cysteine used as an antioxidant and mucolytic agent across pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing. Mercapturic acid is a recognized biochemical synonym occasionally referenced in technical literature. NAC functions primarily as a glutathione precursor and reducing agent, making it a sought-after active ingredient.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, NAC is the active ingredient in mucolytic drug products such as effervescent tablets, oral solutions, and inhalation formulations targeting various respiratory conditions. Nutraceutical and dietary supplement producers use it as an antioxidant active in capsules, powders, and functional beverages positioned around cellular protection and detoxification support.

In cosmetic formulations, NAC acts as a reducing agent in hair waving and straightening treatments, breaking disulfide bonds in keratin to reshape the hair structure effectively. Food manufacturers also apply it as a dough conditioner, where it reduces gluten network strength to improve machinability in cracker and biscuit production for industrial food processing.

NAC is supplied as a white crystalline powder. Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. specifications, meeting the purity and testing requirements for drug product use. Food-grade supply conforming to FCC standards is available for nutrition and food processing applications. This ensures the material meets the rigorous safety standards required for global distribution.