N-Acetyl Cysteine Enhances Lung Function in COPD
In January 2013, a new study found that N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) supplementation improved airway function and decreased flare-ups in individuals with chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). Approximately 13.1 American adults have been diagnosed with COPD. However, nearly 24 million U.S. adults have evidence of impaired lung function, indicating an under-diagnosis of COPD. Currently, COPD is the third leading cause of death in America.
The investigators assessed 120 subjects with stable COPD between 50 and 80 years of age. The subjects received 600 mg NAC twice daily or placebo for one year. The researchers evaluated lung function, symptoms, six-minute walking distance and flare-up and admission rates at the beginning of the study and every 16 weeks for one year. The subjects also completed questionnaires including the modified Medical Research Council dyspnea and St. George Respiratory Questionnaire.
The data showed that the NAC group had significant improvement in lung function based on forced expiratory flow 25-75 percent and forced oscillation technique compared to the placebo group. Additionally, the NAC group showed a significant reduction in flare-up frequency and a tendency towards reduction in admission rates compared to the placebo group. The researchers did not find any difference between the two groups in six-minute walking distance or questionnaire scores.
The investigators stated, “One-year treatment with high-dose NAC resulted in significantly improved small airways function and decreased exacerbation frequency in patients with stable COPD.”
Reference:
Tse HN, et al. Chest. 2013 Jan 24.
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