TimingN-Acetyl Cysteine
Best in the morning
When to take N-Acetyl Cysteine
Morning, empty stomach (or with food if it upsets you)
NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) helps your body make glutathione, its main antioxidant, and thins mucus. It's typically taken in the morning, ideally on an empty stomach.
Best time in your day
- Wake
- Workout
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Evening
- Workout
- Dinner
- Walk
- Bed
- When
- Morning
- Food
- Empty stomach, or with food if it upsets your stomach
- Typical dose
- 600–1,800 mg per day, split into 2–3 doses
How to take it
- 1Start at 600 mg
- 2Take it before breakfast with a full glass of water
- 3Split higher doses across the day
- 4Expect a sulphur smell; that's normal
Watch out
People with asthma should start carefully, and anyone on nitrates should check with a doctor.
Keep apart from
- Nitroglycerin (may cause headaches and low blood pressure)
- Activated charcoal
Common questions
Why does it smell like eggs?
It contains sulphur. Capsules reduce the smell.
Can it help with colds?
It thins mucus and was studied in flu season with some benefit.
Is it good for the liver?
It is the hospital antidote for paracetamol overdose and supports glutathione.
Explore further
More timing guides
N-Acetyl Cysteine with other supplements
Commonly used for
SYNC check
Get your timing plan
Tell us what you take and we'll arrange it into a simple daily routine.
Build my routineFor general education only, not medical advice. Talk to a qualified doctor before starting or changing supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or on medication.