N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) - Methotrexate Interaction
Herbal: N-acetyl Cysteine (nac)
Also Known As: Acetyl Cysteine, Mucomyst
Drug: Methotrexate
Brand names:
Rheumatrex, Otrexup, Rasuvo, Reditrex
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 25, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Methotrexate and N-acetyl Cysteine (nac). This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) has a number of potential interactions with several types of drugs.
This includes:
- Activated charcoal
- Anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs
- Antihypertensive drugs
- Chloroquine
- Nitroglycerin
All of these interactions are explained in detail on our individual drug-herbal interactions pages.
While there are no known interactions between NAC and the drug in this interaction inquiry, it is important to note that there simply may have a lack of studies to better understand potential issues.
Always let your doctor know about all the drugs and supplements you are taking.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDN-acetyl Cysteine (nac) Overview
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is derived from the amino acid cysteine. It is used as a prescription medication to treat acetaminophen overdose and to help thin mucus in people with certain respiratory conditions. It is also used as a dietary supplement.
NAC has a number of potential health benefits. It is a source of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione, which is important for protecting cells from oxidative stress and supporting immune function. It also may have anti-inflammatory effects and studies show it may support healthy brain function.
It is generally considered safe to take NAC supplements in recommended doses.
Methotrexate Overview
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Methotrexate is used to treat severe psoriasis (a skin disease in which red, scaly patches form on some areas of the body) that cannot be controlled by other treatments. Methotrexate is also used along with rest, physical therapy, and sometimes other medications to treat severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA; a condition in which the body attacks its own joints, causing pain, swelling, and loss of function) that cannot be controlled by certain other medications. Methotrexate is also used to treat certain types of cancer including cancers that begin in the tissues that form around a fertilized egg in the uterus, breast cancer, lung cancer, certain cancers of the head and neck, certain types of lymphoma, and leukemia (cancer that begins in the white blood cells). Methotrexate is in a class of medications called antimetabolites. Methotrexate treats cancer by slowing the growth of cancer cells. Methotrexate treats psoriasis by slowing the growth of skin cells to stop scales from forming. Methotrexate may treat rheumatoid arthritis by decreasing the activity of the immune system.
N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) - More Interactions
N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) interacts with 291 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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