N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine
N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) Manufacturer | Glutathione Precursor (CAS: 616-91-1) Headline: N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) Powder | The Precursor to Glutathione Sub-info: Assay 99.0% - 101.0% | USP/EP/AJI Grades | White Crystalline Powder | Fermentation/Synthesis Source. USP: • Glutathione Booster: The most effective rate-limiting precursor for replenishing intracellular Glutathione (GSH) levels. • Respiratory Health: Clinically proven mucolytic agent that breaks down mucus in the lungs (COPD/Bronchitis support). • Pharmaceutical Grade: Strictly conforms to USP (US Pharmacopeia) and EP (European Pharmacopeia) standards for purity and heavy metals.
Introduction
N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (also known as NAC or Acetylcysteine) is the N-acetyl derivative of the amino acid L-Cysteine. It is a stable, safe, and highly bioavailable source of cysteine, which is crucial for the body's synthesis of Glutathione, the "Master Antioxidant."
Unlike L-Cysteine, which can be unstable and oxidize easily, NAC is more stable and better tolerated. We supply high-purity NAC Powder widely used in pharmaceutical intermediates (for respiratory drugs), dietary supplements (for liver detox and immune support), and even in cosmetics for its antioxidant properties.
N-acetyl-L-cysteine is a high-quality biochemical ingredient widely used in pharmaceutical, nutritional, and research industries. With advanced purification technology and strict quality control, N-acetyl-L-cysteine ensures stable composition, high purity, and reliable performance in different formulations. It features good solubility, strong compatibility, and consistent batch quality, making it suitable for tablets, capsules, powders, and liquid products. Compared with ordinary raw materials, N-acetyl-L-cysteine helps manufacturers improve product stability, reduce formulation risks, and enhance production efficiency. It is produced in compliance with international standards, supporting safe storage, long shelf life, and convenient transportation. By choosing N-acetyl-L-cysteine, customers can obtain dependable supply, competitive cost control, and strong technical support for long-term development.
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Keywords：
coenzyme
nicotinamide
manufacturer
N-acetyl-L-cysteine
Functions
1.Glutathione Synthesis (Detoxification)
NAC provides the cysteine needed to replenish Glutathione stores. This is vital for Phase II liver detoxification, neutralizing harmful free radicals, heavy metals, and toxic drug byproducts (notably Acetaminophen/Paracetamol overdose).
2.Mucolytic Activity (Respiratory Support)
NAC works by breaking the disulfide bonds in mucoproteins, lowering the viscosity of mucus. This makes it easier to cough up phlegm, providing relief for conditions like chronic bronchitis, COPD, and cystic fibrosis.
3.Kidney & Lung Protection
Research suggests NAC protects kidneys from contrast-induced nephropathy (dye damage during scans) and reduces inflammation in lung tissues due to its potent antioxidant capacity.
Applications
1.Dietary Supplements
• Products: Liver Detox Capsules, Immune Support Powders, Anti-Aging Formulas.
• Formulation: Often paired with Vitamin C or Milk Thistle.
• Note: NAC has a naturally acidic/sulfurous taste; encapsulation or flavoring is recommended for consumer products.
2.Pharmaceuticals (API & Excipient)
• Products: Mucolytic syrups, Inhalation solutions, Antidotes for acetaminophen poisoning.
• Grade: USP/EP specifications are strictly required.
3.Personal Care (Cosmetics)
• Products: Antioxidant Creams, Skin Brightening Serums.
• Function: Scavenges ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) to prevent premature aging and lighten skin tone.
Flow Chart
Acetylation for Stability
1.Raw Material: L-Cysteine Hydrochloride (Derived from Fermentation or Keratin hydrolysis).
2.Acetylation: Reaction with Acetic Anhydride in aqueous medium to introduce the acetyl group.
3.Crystallization: Cooling the solution to precipitate crude NAC crystals.
4.Centrifugation: Separation of crystals.
5.Refining: Re-dissolution and activated carbon treatment to remove color and impurities.
6.Recrystallization: Ensuring high purity (>99%).
7.Drying: Vacuum drying at controlled temperature (critical to prevent oxidation).
8.Sieving: Passing 20-60 Mesh.
9.QC Testing: Specific Rotation, pH, Assay (HPLC/Titration).
10.Packing: Double PE bags in Cardboard Drums (Desiccant included).
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Product: N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (USP Grade)
| Item | Specification | Result |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder | Conforms |
| Identification (IR) | Matches Reference Standard | Conforms |
| Assay (Titration) | 98.5% ~ 101.0% (Dried basis) | 99.8% |
| Specific Rotation | +21.0° ~ +27.0° | +25.2° |
| pH (1% Solution) | 2.0 ~ 2.8 | 2.4 |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 1.0% | 0.3% |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤ 0.1% | 0.04% |
| Heavy Metals (Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | Conforms |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 1.0 ppm | Conforms |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 3.0 ppm | 0.2 ppm |
| Chloride (Cl) | ≤ 0.04% | Conforms |
| Sulfate (SO4) | ≤ 0.03% | Conforms |
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
Titration & HPLC
• Titration: The standard USP method uses Iodometric titration to determine the assay.
• HPLC: We also use HPLC to detect specific impurities (like L-Cysteine or N,N-Diacetylcystine) ensuring the product meets the stringent purity requirements for pharmaceutical use.
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
The IR spectrum confirms the presence of the Acetyl group and the Sulfhydryl (-SH) group characteristic of NAC. The HPLC profile shows a single major peak with no significant degradation products.
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Oxidation: The -SH group is sensitive to oxidation in air.
• Hygroscopicity: NAC serves as a mild hygroscopic agent.
• Storage: It is CRITICAL to store NAC in airtight containers, protected from light and moisture. Exposure to humid air can cause clumping and a strong sulfur smell (degradation).
• Shelf Life: 24 months (if unopened and stored correctly).
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Classification: Non-hazardous substance.
• Odor: Has a characteristic slight acetic/sulfurous odor (vinegar-like). This is normal.
• Acidity: Solutions are acidic (pH ~2). Avoid contact with eyes or sensitive skin without dilution.
• Handling: Wear gloves and mask.
Customer Comments
Plant Manager, Supplement Manufacturer (USA)
2026.02.12
★★★★★
QC Director, Pharmaceutical Co. (India)
2026.02.12
★★★★★
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FAQ
Why does NAC smell like rotten eggs/vinegar?
NAC contains sulfur (SH group), which naturally has a slight sulfur smell. A faint vinegar smell is also common due to the acetyl group. Strong, overpowering odors indicate degradation or moisture exposure, but a mild odor is characteristic of the pure raw material.
Is your NAC synthesized or fermented?
We offer both: 1.Chemical Synthesis: From L-Cysteine HCl (via Keratin/Feather hydrolysis). Cost-effective. 2.Fermentation: Derived from plant-based glucose fermentation. Vegan and suitable for Vegetarian/Kosher/Halal markets. Please specify your preference.
Can NAC be used in liquid beverages?
It is soluble, but it is unstable in liquid over time (oxidizes) and has a very acidic/sour taste. It is not recommended for Ready-to-Drink (RTD) beverages unless encapsulated or consumed immediately (like effervescent tablets).
References
1.Atkuri, K. R., et al. (2007). N-Acetylcysteine—a safe antidote for cysteine/glutathione deficiency. Current Opinion in Pharmacology.
2.Decramer, M., et al. (2005). Effects of N-acetylcysteine on outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Bronchitis Randomized on NAC Study-BRONCUS). The Lancet.
3.Kelly, G. S. (1998). Clinical applications of N-acetylcysteine. Alternative Medicine Review.
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