Amino Acids & Peptides
REACH
n-acetyl-L-cysteine
CAS Number
616-91-1
EC Number
210-498-3
Abbreviation
NAC
What is 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.
Where is n-acetyl-L-cysteine used?
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing: active ingredient in mucolytic drug products such as effervescent tablets, oral solutions, and inhalation formulations
- Nutraceutical and dietary supplement production: antioxidant active in capsules, powders, and functional beverages
- Cosmetic formulations: reducing agent in hair waving and straightening treatments, breaking disulfide bonds in keratin
- Food manufacturing: dough conditioner that reduces gluten network strength in cracker and biscuit production
- It functions primarily as a glutathione precursor and reducing agent.
Good to know: Mercapturic acid is a recognized biochemical synonym occasionally referenced in technical literature.
Other Names (Synonyms)
N-acetylcysteine|N-acetyl-3-mercaptoalanine|mercapturic acid|L-α-acetamido-β-mercaptopropionic acid|L-alpha-acetamido-beta-mercaptopropionic acid|L-acetylcysteine|2-acetylamino-3-mercaptopropionic acid|2-acetylamino-3-mercaptopropionate|NAC
What are the physical properties of n-acetyl-L-cysteine?
Melting Point 109.5 °C
Boiling Point 407.7±40.0 °C(Predicted)
Density 1.249 (estimate)
Appearance White crystalline powder
Color White
Form Solid
Water Solubility Soluble in water, ethanol, methanol, dimethyl sulfoxide, hot isopropyl alcohol, methyl acetate and ethyl acetate. Insoluble in chloroform and ether.
Vapor Pressure 0Pa at 20℃
Refractive Index 24 ° (C=JPC Method)
pH 1.5-2.5 (20°C, 100g/L in H2O)
Log P -0.6 at 23℃
How is n-acetyl-L-cysteine classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant
Hazard Statements
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
Precautionary Statements
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to n-acetyl-L-cysteine?
HS Code 29309016
WGK (Germany) 3