NAC - arthritis

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Yes, the long-term use of oral N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has been linked to an increased risk of knee osteoarthritis in some studies, which could cause joint pain. However, research on NAC's effects on joint pain is complex, as some studies suggest it may have a protective or pain-relieving effect on joints by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Therefore, the relationship between NAC and joint pain is not straightforward and may depend on factors like the duration of use and individual health conditions.
Potential link to joint pain
Increased risk of osteoarthritis: Some nationwide cohort studies have found that long-term oral NAC use is associated with a higher risk of developing knee osteoarthritis, particularly in younger age groups.
Mechanisms: This risk may be linked to how NAC interacts with joint tissues, though the exact mechanisms are not fully understood and may differ from its potential pain-relieving effects.
Potential pain-relieving or protective effects
Anti-inflammatory properties: NAC has been shown to reduce oxidative stress and inhibit inflammation, which could be beneficial for pain management.
Management of pain conditions: Research suggests NAC may help with certain types of pain, such as neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain, and could be used as an adjuvant therapy to reduce the need for other pain medications.
Symptom improvement in some cases: Some studies have shown that NAC can improve clinical characteristics in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

@irenea8, thank you Irene! Indeed complex the relationship between NAC and OA. I am going to stop taking 600 mg daily out of precaution. I pushed hard on cardio yesterday and did the leg press and other things and my knees are fine. I just don't want to risk it.
Best wishes of great health to all of us!

@gigiv
I do find NAC very effective in clearing deeper seated mucus and increasing my already large amount. So it does work well for thinning the mucus. I am going to try using it every few days at the lower dose.

@irenea8 Yes, I agree, Irene, that NAC is very effective in clearing mucus. In my case, it is more effective than Mucinex. But I don't have a lot of mucus. I think that going forward, there will be days when I take Mucinex and days when I take 300 mg of NAC. I am certainly not going to take it daily any more. I feel it affects something in my eyes, weird, when I do.
Best wishes of great health to all of us!

Wow! Thanks for the info. I've been taking NAC for several years now and I have noticed increased knee pain. I am going to cut my dose and see if it improves. I guess there is a trade off...decreased mucus vs increased knee pain! Oh, the joys of getting older.