Major interaction on record — check this product against your medications before combining. Based on 2 of 4 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Cholesterol Regulation Complex Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Shaklee

Tablet Or Pill Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Major
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Major

Cholesterol Regulation Complex is a dietary supplement by Shaklee with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for replacing fluids and electrolytes, preventing dehydration during exercise or illness, treating low blood sodium (under medical care).Based on those ingredients, 327 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated major. The ingredients most likely to interact are N-Acetylcysteine, Sodium. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Cholesterol Regulation Complex by Shaklee

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 3 of its 3 active ingredients.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Cholesterol Regulation Complex contains three active ingredients. Sodium is an essential mineral that your body needs in small amounts to regulate fluid balance and nerve function.

N-acetylcysteine is a form of the amino acid cysteine that plays a role in supporting respiratory health and antioxidant defenses. The product also includes a hydrolyzed soy protein blend.

The tablet also contains two inactive ingredients — dicalcium phosphate and croscarmellose sodium — which are used as a filler and binder to hold the tablet together.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: helps retain normal cholesterol levels.
  • We looked for evidence on: Hyperlipidemia, Congestive heart failure, Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, Myocardial infarction (MI), Angina, HDL cholesterol — and 2 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) is rated "Possibly Effective" for Angina (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) is rated "Possibly Effective" for Hyperlipidemia, Myocardial infarction (MI).
  • Also on file: N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

The data we hold covers effectiveness for sodium and N-acetylcysteine, but not for the soy protein blend in this product. Sodium is rated Likely Effective for cystic fibrosis and Possibly Effective for reducing kidney damage from amphotericin B, but evidence for cholesterol regulation itself isn't established in our data.

N-acetylcysteine is rated Effective for acetaminophen poisoning, atelectasis (a collapsed lung condition), bronchial diagnostic studies, and tracheostomy care, and Possibly Effective for bronchitis — again, not for cholesterol regulation specifically. We don't hold effectiveness information for this product's actual purpose, so talk with your pharmacist or doctor about whether it's supported for your needs.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Sodium N-acetyl Cysteine (nac)

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 2 of the 2 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 2 of 2.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 2 of 2.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Sodium is generally well tolerated when you get it from normal diet, but too much — whether from supplements or very high food intake — is linked to high blood pressure, heart strain, and kidney problems. N-acetylcysteine is generally well tolerated at typical doses; the most common side effects with oral use are diarrhea, dry mouth, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.

High doses (more than 9 grams as a single dose or more than 30 grams daily) carry a higher risk of side effects. For pregnancy and lactation, sodium is rated Likely Safe in some contexts and Possibly Unsafe in others, while N-acetylcysteine is rated Possibly Safe during pregnancy but there isn't enough data on lactation.

Talk with your doctor before using this product if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Sodium N-acetyl Cysteine (nac)

Meds to double-check

Major interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Major identified

At least one ingredient has a documented Major-severity interaction. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 2 of the 2 matched ingredients can interact with medications — N-acetyl Cysteine (nac), Sodium.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Major.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; lithium.
  • For scale: 327 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Check before you start if you take nitroglycerin (Major interaction with N-acetylcysteine). Also double-check blood pressure medications (Moderatesodium can reduce their effect and N-acetylcysteine may lower blood pressure further), lithium (Moderate — sodium can cause toxicity), blood thinners including anticoagulants and antiplatelets (Moderate — N-acetylcysteine may increase bleeding), corticosteroids (Moderate — sodium interaction), or chloroquine (Moderate — N-acetylcysteine may interfere).

No interactions are documented for the hydrolyzed soy protein blend.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Major medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product is mainly a concern if you take nitroglycerin, blood pressure medications, lithium, blood thinners, or certain other drugs — the sodium and N-acetylcysteine here can interfere significantly. If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney problems, sodium content matters, so check with your pharmacist first.

Anyone taking medications should run their prescriptions through the interaction tool on this page before starting.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 2 of 3 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Jan 25, 2012.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Cholesterol Regulation Complex, straight from the product label.

Brand Shaklee
Net contents 180 Tablet(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Jan 25, 2012
DSLD ID 5065
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Tablet Or Pill
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Cholesterol Regulation Complex by Shaklee, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
6 Tablet(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
6 Tablet(s)
Servings per container
30
IngredientAmount% DV
Calories15 {Calories}--
Total Carbohydrates1 g1%
Protein2 g4%
Sodium60 mg2%
N-Acetylcysteine200 mg--
Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Blend3000 mg--

Other ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Croscarmellose Sodium

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
FDA Statement of Identity

Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

DIRECTIONS: Take 6 tablets per day with meals.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

*THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.

General Statements

CARDIO HEALTH

Cholesterol Regulation Complex is a unique blend of natural ingredients that helps retain normal cholesterol levels and also increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels by up to 37% within three months.* It helps inhibit absorption of dietary cholesterol and does not interrupt Coenzyme Q10 production.* N-acetylcysteine supports the body's natural antioxidant defenses, which help prevent LDL oxidation.*

Helps Retain Normal Cholesterol Levels*

PHYTOPEPTIDES, PHOSPHOLIPIDS, & N-ACETYLCYSTEINE

Promotes Cardiovascular Health*

General

NG348A Item #20648

Precautions

Caution: If pregnant or nursing, consult your physician prior to use.

Bottle has printed seal under cap for your protection.

Formulation

Gluten free.

No artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives added.

Seals/Symbols

100% SHAKLEE GUARANTEE

See for yourself

Cholesterol Regulation Complex by Shaklee label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Cholesterol Regulation Complex by Shaklee

These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size6 Tablet(s) Dosage formTablet Or Pill Servings per container30 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Protein

2 g per serving

Sodium

Interacts with
205 drugs
60 mg per serving

Sodium is an essential mineral and electrolyte your body needs to balance fluids, support nerves, and help muscles work. Most people in modern diets g...

Sodium monograph & interactions

N-Acetylcysteine

Interacts with
294 drugs
200 mg per serving

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a supplement form of the amino acid cysteine and a building block for the antioxidant glutathione. It has well-established...

N-Acetylcysteine monograph & interactions

Hydrolyzed Soy Protein Blend

3000 mg per serving Form: Phytopeptides

Other (inactive) ingredients: Dicalcium Phosphate, Croscarmellose Sodium. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Cholesterol Regulation Complex by Shaklee Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Cholesterol Regulation Complex?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
327Drugs
1 Major 326 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Sodium 205

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Cholesterol Regulation Complex with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

N-Acetylcysteine5 drug types · 294 drugs

Nitroglycerin

N-acetyl cysteine can increase the risk for hypotension and headaches when taken with intravenous or transdermal nitroglycerin.
Clinical research shows that concomitant administration of N-acetyl cysteine and intravenous or transdermal nitroglycerin can cause severe hypotension and intolerable headaches. Furthermore, in vitro research suggests that N-acetyl cysteine increases the anticoagulant activity of nitroglycerin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Activated Charcoal

N-acetyl cysteine might reduce the effects of activated charcoal, while activated charcoal might reduce the absorption of N-acetyl cysteine.
N-acetyl cysteine appears to reduce the capacity of activated charcoal to adsorb acetaminophen and salicylic acid. Conversely, although clinical research suggests that although activated charcoal can reduce the absorption of N-acetyl cysteine by up to 40%, it does not seem to reduce its clinical effects. Other clinical evidence suggests that activated charcoal does not affect the absorption of N-acetyl cysteine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, N-acetyl cysteine might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Clinical research suggests that intravenous N-acetyl cysteine decreases prothrombin time, prolongs coagulation time, decreases platelet aggregation, and increases blood loss in surgical patients. Furthermore, in vitro research suggests that N-acetyl cysteine increases the anticoagulant activity of nitroglycerin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, N-acetyl cysteine might increase the risk of hypotension when taken with antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research suggests that N-acetyl cysteine potentiates the hypotensive effects of the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) captopril and enalaprilat. Theoretically, combining N-acetyl cysteine with other antihypertensive drugs might increase the risk of hypotension.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Chloroquine (Aralen)

Theoretically, N-acetyl cysteine might interfere with the antimalarial effects of chloroquine.
Animal research suggests that N-acetyl cysteine might reduce the antimalarial effects of chloroquine by increasing cellular levels of glutathione.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Sodium7 drug types · 205 drugs

Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, a high intake of dietary sodium might reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs.
High intake of dietary sodium can increase systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Also, high intake of sodium may necessitate increased use of antihypertensive medications to achieve blood pressure control in some patients, such as those with chronic kidney disease.

Likelihood Probable Evidence A
Corticosteroids

Concomitant use of mineralocorticoids and some glucocorticoids with sodium supplements might increase the risk of hypernatremia.
Mineralocorticoids and some glucocorticoids (corticosteroids) cause sodium retention. This effect is dose-related and depends on mineralocorticoid potency. It is most common with hydrocortisone, cortisone, and fludrocortisone, followed by prednisone and prednisolone.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Didanosine (Videx)

Concomitant use of didanosine with additional sodium from dietary or supplemental sources may increase the risk of hypernatremia.
Didanosine formulations contain a significant amount of sodium.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Lithium

Altering dietary intake of sodium might alter the levels and clinical effects of lithium.
High sodium intake can reduce plasma concentrations of lithium by increasing lithium excretion. Reducing sodium intake can significantly increase plasma concentrations of lithium and cause lithium toxicity in patients being treated with lithium carbonate. Stabilizing sodium intake is shown to reduce the percentage of patients with lithium level fluctuations above 0.8 mEq/L. Patients taking lithium should avoid significant alterations in their dietary intake of sodium.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Sodium Phosphates

Theoretically, concomitant use of sodium phosphate with sodium supplements might increase the risk of hypernatremia.
Use of high doses (> 45 mL in 24 hours) of sodium phosphate, such as those used for bowel cleansing before surgery, can lead to serious electrolyte disturbances, including hypernatremia. The risk of hypernatremia is highest in the elderly and people with other risk factors for electrolyte disturbances.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sodium-Containing Drugs

Concomitant use of sodium-containing drugs with additional sodium from dietary or supplemental sources may increase the risk of hypernatremia and long-term sodium-related complications.
The Chronic Disease Risk Reduction (CDRR) intake level of 2.3 grams of sodium daily indicates the intake at which it is believed that chronic disease risk increases for the apparently healthy population. Some medications contain high quantities of sodium. When used in conjunction with sodium supplements or high-sodium diets, the CDRR may be exceeded. Additionally, concomitant use may increase the risk for hypernatremia; this risk is highest in the elderly and people with other risk factors for electrolyte disturbances.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Tolvaptan (Samsca)

Theoretically, concomitant use of tolvaptan with sodium might increase the risk of hypernatremia.
Tolvaptan is a vasopressin receptor 2 antagonist that is used to increase sodium levels in patients with hyponatremia. Patients taking tolvaptan should use caution with the use of sodium salts such as sodium chloride.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Cholesterol Regulation Complex, from the product label.

Shaklee

See all Shaklee products
Name
Shaklee Corporation
Street Address
4747 Willow Road
City
Pleasanton
State
CA
ZipCode
94588
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Cholesterol Regulation Complex by Shaklee: Common Questions

Does Cholesterol Regulation Complex by Shaklee interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Cholesterol Regulation Complex has a known interaction with 327 medications, including 1 rated major. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Cholesterol Regulation Complex contains 4 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Is this safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
The sodium in this product is rated Likely Safe in some pregnancy contexts but Possibly Unsafe in others — the picture is mixed. N-acetylcysteine is Possibly Safe during pregnancy, but there isn't enough data on safety during breastfeeding. Because the evidence isn't clear, talk with your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you're pregnant or breastfeeding; they can advise you based on your personal situation.
What are the most common side effects of N-acetylcysteine?
At typical doses, the most common side effects are diarrhea, dry mouth, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. High doses — more than 9 grams in a single dose or more than 30 grams daily — are more likely to cause side effects.
Why is sodium a concern in supplements?
Your body needs a small amount of sodium, but excess sodium is linked to high blood pressure, heart strain, and kidney problems. Normal dietary sodium is fine, but adding a sodium supplement on top of what you eat from food can push your intake too high, especially if you already take medications for blood pressure or have heart or kidney disease.
What is N-acetylcysteine used for?
According to the data we hold, N-acetylcysteine is Effective for treating acetaminophen poisoning and certain lung conditions like atelectasis and bronchitis, and Possibly Effective for bronchitis. It works as an antioxidant and helps break down mucus. We don't have evidence for cholesterol regulation in our data.
Can I take this if I'm on a blood thinner?
N-acetylcysteine in this product may increase your bleeding risk when combined with blood thinners — this is a Moderate interaction. Don't start this without checking with your pharmacist or doctor first; they can tell you if it's safe for you or if you need to adjust your medication.
Will this work for cholesterol?
The evidence we hold doesn't cover cholesterol regulation for either sodium or N-acetylcysteine, so we can't say whether this product works for that purpose. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether there's research supporting it for your needs.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Cholesterol Regulation Complex is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Cholesterol Regulation Complex label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Cholesterol Regulation Complex's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 124 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Sodium 38 references
  1. Garabedian-Ruffalo SM, Ruffalo RL. Drug and nutrient interactions. Am Fam Physician 1986;33:165-74.
  2. Food and Drug Administration Science Background: Safety of Sodium Phosphates Oral Solution. September 17, 2001. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/safety/sodiumphospate.htm
  3. Coton T, Mallaret C, Coilliot C, Carre D, Guisset M. Severe acute ulcerated gastritis induced by salt. Presse Med 2009;38(3):499-500. PubMed
  4. Frings-Meuthen P, Buehlmeier J, Baecker N, et al. High sodium chloride intake exacerbates immobilization-induced bone resorption and protein losses. J Appl Physiol 2011;111(2):537-542. PubMed
  5. Frings-Meuthen P, Baecker N, Heer M. Low-grade metabolic acidosis may be the cause of sodium chloride-induced exaggerated bone resorption. J Bone Miner Res 2008;23(4):517-524. PubMed
  6. Alam S, Johnson AG. A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCT) among healthy normotensive and essential hypertensive elderly patients to determine the effect of high salt (NaCl) diet of blood pressure. J Hum Hypertens 1999;13(6):367-74.
  7. Boudville N, Ward S, Benaroia M, House AA. Increased sodium intake correlates with greater use of antihypertensive agents by subjects with chronic kidney disease. Am J Hypertens 2005;18(10):1300-5. PubMed
  8. Bennett WM. Drug interactions and consequences of sodium restriction. Am J Clin Nutr 1997;65(2 Suppl):678S-681S. PubMed
  9. Okusa MD, Crystal LJ. Clinical manifestations and management of acute lithium intoxication. Am J Med 1994;97(4):383-9. PubMed
  10. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary reference intakes for water, potassium, sodium, chloride, and sulfate. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2005. Available at: http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=10925. DOI
  11. D'Elia L, Rossi G, Ippolito R, Cappuccio FP, Strazzullo P. Habitual salt intake and risk of gastric cancer: a meta-analysis of prospective studies. Clin Nutr 2012;31(4):489-98. PubMed
  12. Goldsmith SR. Hyponatremia in heart failure: time for a trial. J Card Fail 2013;19(6):398-400. PubMed
  13. Willocks L, Brettle R, Keen J, Valentine C, Pinching AJ. Formulations of didanosine (ddI) and salt overload. Lancet 1992;339(8786):190.
  14. Chen L, Zhang Z, Chen W, Whelton PK, Appel LJ. Lower Sodium Intake and Risk of Headaches: Results From the Trial of Nonpharmacologic Interventions in the Elderly. Am J Public Health. 2016;106(7):1270-5. PubMed
  15. Cook NR, Appel LJ, Whelton PK. Lower levels of sodium intake and reduced cardiovascular risk. Circulation. 2014;129(9):981-9. PubMed
  16. Cook NR, Appel LJ, Whelton PK. Sodium Intake and All-Cause Mortality Over 20 Years in the Trials of Hypertension Prevention. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2016;68(15):1609-1617. PubMed
  17. Mente A, O'Donnell M, Rangarajan S, et al. Associations of urinary sodium excretion with cardiovascular events in individuals with and without hypertension: a pooled analysis of data from four studies. Lancet. 2016;388(10043):465-75. PubMed
  18. Moosavian SP, Haghighatdoost F, Surkan PJ, Azadbakht L. Salt and obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2017;68(3):265-277. PubMed
  19. O'Donnell M, Mente A, Rangarajan S, et al. Urinary sodium and potassium excretion, mortality, and cardiovascular events. N Engl J Med. 2014;371(7):612-23. DOI
  20. Poggio R, Gutierrez L, Matta MG, Elorriaga N, Irazola V, Rubinstein A. Daily sodium consumption and CVD mortality in the general population: systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Public Health Nutr. 2015;18(4):695-704. PubMed
  21. Stallings VA, Harrison M, Oria M; Committee to Review the Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium, Food and Nutrition Board, Health and Medicine Division, National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Washington (DC): National Acad
  22. Mahtani KR, Heneghan C, Onakpoya I, et al. Reduced Salt Intake for Heart Failure: A Systematic Review. JAMA Intern Med. 2018 Dec 1;178(12):1693-1700. PubMed
  23. Yancy CW. Sodium Restriction in Heart Failure: Too Much Uncertainty-Do the Trials. JAMA Intern Med. 2018 Dec 1;178(12):1700-1701. PubMed
  24. He FJ, Campbell NRC, Ma Y, MacGregor GA, Cogswell ME, Cook NR. Errors in estimating usual sodium intake by the Kawasaki formula alter its relationship with mortality: implications for public health. Int J Epidemiol. 2018;47(6):1784-1795. PubMed
  25. Murthy K, Ondrey GJ, Malkani N, et al. THE EFFECTS OF HYPONATREMIA ON BONE DENSITY AND FRACTURES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS. Endocr Pract. 2019;25(4):366-378. PubMed
  26. Messerli FH, Hofstetter L, Syrogiannouli L, et al. Sodium intake, life expectancy, and all-cause mortality. Eur Heart J 2021;42(21):2103-2112. PubMed
  27. Graudal NA, Hubeck-Graudal T, Jurgens G. Effects of low sodium diet versus high sodium diet on blood pressure, renin, aldosterone, catecholamines, cholesterol, and triglyceride. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020;12(12):CD004022. PubMed
  28. Giatti S, Santos RB, Aielo AN, et al. Association of sodium with obstructive sleep apnea. The ELSA-Brasil study. Ann Am Thorac Soc 2021;18(3):502-510. PubMed
  29. Nan X, Lu H, Wu J, et al. The interactive association between sodium intake, alcohol consumption and hypertension among elderly in northern China: a cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2021;21(1):135. PubMed
  30. Kyozuka H, Fukusda T, Murata T, et al. Impact of preconception sodium intake on hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: The Japan Environment and Children's study. Pregnancy Hypertens 2021;23:66-72. PubMed
  31. Zhao L, Ogden CL, Yang Q, et al. Association of usual sodium intake with obesity among US children and adolescents, NHANES 2009-2016. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2021;29(3):587-594. PubMed
  32. Ma Y, He FJ, Sun Q, et al. 24-Hour urinary sodium and potassium excretion and cardiovascular risk. N Engl J Med 2022;386(3):252-263. PubMed
  33. Liu J, Yang X, Zhang P, et al. Association of urinary sodium excretion and left ventricular hypertrophy in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross-sectional study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021;12:728493. PubMed
  34. Filippini T, Malavolti M, Whelton PK, Vinceti M. Sodium intake and risk of hypertension: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of observational cohort studies. Curr Hypertens Rep 2022;24(5):133-144. PubMed
  35. Wang DD, Li Y, Nguyen XT, et al. Dietary sodium and potassium intake and risk of non-fatal cardiovascular diseases: The million veteran program. Nutrients 2022;14(5):1121. PubMed
  36. Kwak JH, Park CH, Eun CS, et al. The associations of dietary intake of high sodium and low zinc with gastric cancer mortality: A prospective cohort study in Korea. Nutr Cancer 2022;74(10):3501-3508. PubMed
  37. George S, Maiti R, Mishra BR, Jena M, Mohapatra D. Effect of regulated add-on sodium chloride intake on stabilization of serum lithium concentration in bipolar disorder: A randomized controlled trial. Bipolar Disord 2023;25(1):66-75. PubMed
  38. Zhou TL, Schütten MTJ, Kroon AA, et al. Urinary Sodium Excretion and Salt Intake Are Not Associated With Blood Pressure Variability in a White General Population. J Am Heart Assoc 2023;12(1):e026578. PubMed

See these in context on the Sodium monograph →

N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) 86 references
  1. Ellenhorn MJ, et al. Ellenhorn's Medical Toxicology: Diagnoses and Treatment of Human Poisoning. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins, 1997.
  2. Jepsen S, Hansen AB. The influence of N-acetylcysteine on the measurement of prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time in healthy subjects. Scand J Clin Lab Invest 1994;54:543-7. PubMed
  3. van Zandwijk N, Dalesio O, Pastorino U, et al. EUROSCAN, a randomized trial of vitamin A and N-acetylcysteine in patients with head and neck cancer or lung cancer. For the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Head and Neck and Lung C DOI
  4. Horowitz RS, Dart RC, Jarvie DR, et al. Placental transfer of N-acetylcysteine following human maternal acetaminophen toxicity. J Toxicol Clin Toxicol 1997;35:447-51.
  5. Bailey B, McGuigan MA. Management of anaphylactoid reactions to intravenous N-acetylcysteine. Ann Emerg Med 1998;31:710-5. PubMed
  6. Spiller HA, Krenzelok EP, Grande GA, et al. A prospective evaluation of the effect of activated charcoal before oral N-acetylcysteine in acetaminophen overdose. Ann Emerg Med 1994;23:519-23. PubMed
  7. Ardissino D, Merlini PA, Savonitto S, et al. Effect of transdermal nitroglycerin or N-acetylcysteine, or both, in the long-term treatment of unstable angina pectoris. J Am Coll Cardiol 1997;29:941-7. PubMed
  8. Horowitz JD, Henry CA, Syrjanen ML, et al. Nitroglycerine/N-acetylcysteine in the management of unstable angina pectoris. Eur Heart J 1988;9:95-100. PubMed
  9. Louwerse ES, Weverling GJ, Bossuyt PM, et al. Randomized, double-blind, controlled trial of acetylcysteine in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Arch Neurol 1995;52:559-64. PubMed
  10. Wiklund O, Fager G, Andersson A, et al. N-acetylcysteine treatment lowers plasma homocysteine but not serum lipoprotein(a) levels. Atherosclerosis 1996;119:99-106. PubMed
  11. De Flora S, Grassi C, Carati L. Attenuation of influenza-like symptomatology and improvement of cell-mediated immunity with long-term N-acetylcysteine treatment. Eur Respir J 1997;10:1535-41. PubMed
  12. Iversen HK. N-acetylcysteine enhances nitroglycerin-induced headache and cranial arterial responses. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1992;52:125-33. PubMed
  13. Behr J, Maier K, Degenkolb B, et al. Antioxidative and clinical effects of high-dose N-acetylcysteine in fibrosing alveolitis. Adjunctive therapy to maintenance immunosuppression. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 1997;156:1897-901.
  14. Tenenbein PK, Sitar DS, Tenenbein M. Interaction between N-acetylcysteine and activated charcoal: implications for the treatment of acetaminophen poisoning. Pharmacotherapy 2001;21:1331-6.
  15. Arstall MA, Yang J, Stafford I, et al. N-acetylcysteine in combination with nitroglycerin and streptokinase for the treatment of evolving acute myocardial infarction. Safety and biochemical effects. Circulation 1995;92:2855-62.
  16. Estensen RD, Levy M, Klopp SJ, et al. N-acetylcysteine suppression of the proliferative index in the colon of patients with previous adenomatous colonic polyps. Cancer Lett 1999;147:109-14. PubMed
  17. Pela R, Calcagni AM, Subiaco S, et al. N-acetylcysteine reduces the exacerbation rate in patients with moderate to severe COPD. Respiration 1999;66:495-500.. PubMed
  18. Oldemeyer JB, Biddle WP, Wurdeman RL, et al. Acetylcysteine in the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy after coronary angiography. Am Heart J 2003;146:E23. . PubMed
  19. Ekins BR, Ford DC, Thompson MI, et al. The effect of activated charcoal on N-acetylcysteine absorption in normal subjects. Am J Emerg Med. 1987;5(6):483-7. PubMed
  20. Chamberlain JM, Gorman RL, Oderda GM, Klein-Schwartz W, Klein BL. Use of activated charcoal in a simulated poisoning with acetaminophen: a new loading dose for N-acetylcysteine? Ann Emerg Med. 1993;22(9):1398-402. PubMed
  21. Renzi FP, Donovan JW, Martin TG, Morgan L, Harrison EF. Concomitant use of activated charcoal and N-acetylcysteine. Ann Emerg Med. 1985;14(6):568-72. DOI
  22. North DS, Peterson RG, Krenzelok EP. Effect of activated charcoal administration on acetylcysteine serum levels in humans. Am J Hosp Pharm. 1981;38(7):1022-4. DOI
  23. Loscalzo J. N-Acetylcysteine potentiates inhibition of platelet aggregation by nitroglycerin. J Clin Invest. 1985;76(2):703-8. PubMed
  24. Ruiz FJ, Salom MG, Inglés AC, et al. N-acetyl-L-cysteine potentiates depressor response to captopril and enalaprilat in SHRs. Am J Physiol. 1994;267(3 Pt 2):R767-72. PubMed
  25. Deharo E, Barkan D, Krugliak M, Golenser J, Ginsburg H. Potentiation of the antimalarial action of chloroquine in rodent malaria by drugs known to reduce cellular glutathione levels. Biochem Pharmacol. 2003;66(5):809-17. PubMed
  26. Buckley, N. A., Whyte, I. M., O'Connell, D. L., and Dawson, A. H. Oral or intravenous N-acetylcysteine: which is the treatment of choice for acetaminophen (paracetamol) poisoning? J Toxicol.Clin Toxicol. 1999;37(6):759-767.
  27. Sunman, W., Hughes, A. D., and Sever, P. S. Anaphylactoid response to intravenous acetylcysteine. Lancet 5-16-1992;339(8803):1231-1232. PubMed
  28. Reynard, K., Riley, A., and Walker, B. E. Respiratory arrest after N-acetylcysteine for paracetamol overdose. Lancet 9-12-1992;340(8820):675. PubMed
  29. BERNSTEIN, I. L. and AUSDENMOORE, R. W. IATROGENIC BRONCHOSPASM OCCURRING DURING CLINICAL TRIALS OF A NEW MUCOLYTIC AGENT, ACETYLCYSTEINE. Dis.Chest 1964;46:469-473. PubMed
  30. REAS, H. W. THE USE OF N-ACETYLCYSTEINE IN THE TREATMENT OF CYSTIC FIBROSIS. J Pediatr 1964;65:542-557. PubMed
  31. Bibi, H., Seifert, B., Oullette, M., and Belik, J. Intratracheal N-acetylcysteine use in infants with chronic lung disease. Acta Paediatr. 1992;81(4):335-339. PubMed
  32. Jepsen, S., Herlevsen, P., Knudsen, P., Bud, M. I., and Klausen, N. O. Antioxidant treatment with N-acetylcysteine during adult respiratory distress syndrome: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Crit Care Med 1992;20(7):918-923. PubMed
  33. Roes, E. M., Raijmakers, M. T., Boo, T. M., Zusterzeel, P. L., Merkus, H. M., Peters, W. H., and Steegers, E. A. Oral N-acetylcysteine administration does not stabilise the process of established severe preeclampsia. Eur.J Obstet.Gynecol.Reprod.Biol 2006
  34. Spiller, H. A., Winter, M. L., Klein-Schwartz, W., and Bangh, S. A. Efficacy of activated charcoal administered more than four hours after acetaminophen overdose. J Emerg.Med 2006;30(1):1-5. PubMed
  35. Tirouvanziam, R., Conrad, C. K., Bottiglieri, T., Herzenberg, L. A., Moss, R. B., and Herzenberg, L. A. High-dose oral N-acetylcysteine, a glutathione prodrug, modulates inflammation in cystic fibrosis. Proc Natl.Acad.Sci U.S.A 3-21-2006;103(12):4628-463
  36. Niemi, T. T., Munsterhjelm, E., Poyhia, R., Hynninen, M. S., and Salmenpera, M. T. The effect of N-acetylcysteine on blood coagulation and platelet function in patients undergoing open repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm. Blood Coagul.Fibrinolysis 2006;1 PubMed
  37. Komisarof, J. A., Gilkey, G. M., Peters, D. M., Koudelka, C. W., Meyer, M. M., and Smith, S. M. N-acetylcysteine for patients with prolonged hypotension as prophylaxis for acute renal failure (NEPHRON). Crit Care Med 2007;35(2):435-441. PubMed
  38. Grimble, G. K. Adverse gastrointestinal effects of arginine and related amino acids. J Nutr 2007;137(6 Suppl 2):1693S-1701S. PubMed
  39. Berk, M., Copolov, D. L., Dean, O., Lu, K., Jeavons, S., Schapkaitz, I., Anderson-Hunt, M., and Bush, A. I. N-acetyl cysteine for depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder--a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. Biol Psychiatry 9-15-2008;64(6) PubMed
  40. Shahin, A. Y., Hassanin, I. M., Ismail, A. M., Kruessel, J. S., and Hirchenhain, J. Effect of oral N-acetyl cysteine on recurrent preterm labor following treatment for bacterial vaginosis. Int J Gynaecol.Obstet. 2009;104(1):44-48. PubMed
  41. Nigwekar, S. U. and Kandula, P. N-acetylcysteine in cardiovascular-surgery-associated renal failure: a meta-analysis. Ann Thorac.Surg 2009;87(1):139-147. PubMed
  42. Sandilands, E. A. and Bateman, D. N. Adverse reactions associated with acetylcysteine. Clin Toxicol.(Phila) 2009;47(2):81-88. PubMed
  43. Wijeysundera, D. N., Karkouti, K., Rao, V., Granton, J. T., Chan, C. T., Raban, R., Carroll, J., Poonawala, H., and Beattie, W. S. N-acetylcysteine is associated with increased blood loss and blood product utilization during cardiac surgery. Crit Care Me PubMed
  44. Holdiness, M. R. Clinical pharmacokinetics of N-acetylcysteine. Clin Pharmacokinet. 1991;20(2):123-134. PubMed
  45. Dawson, A. H., Henry, D. A., and McEwen, J. Adverse reactions to N-acetylcysteine during treatment for paracetamol poisoning. Med J Aust. 3-20-1989;150(6):329-331.
  46. Rasmussen, J. B. and Glennow, C. Reduction in days of illness after long-term treatment with N-acetylcysteine controlled-release tablets in patients with chronic bronchitis. Eur.Respir.J 1988;1(4):351-355. DOI
  47. Walters, M. T., Rubin, C. E., Keightley, S. J., Ward, C. D., and Cawley, M. I. A double-blind, cross-over, study of oral N-acetylcysteine in Sjogren's syndrome. Scand J Rheumatol.Suppl 1986;61:253-258.
  48. Cato, A., Goldstein, I., and Millman, M. A double-blind parallel study of acetylcysteine-isoproterenol and saline-isoproterenol in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease. J Int Med Res 1977;5(3):175-183. PubMed
  49. Parr, G. D. and Huitson, A. Oral Fabrol (oral N-acetyl-cysteine) in chronic bronchitis. Br.J.Dis.Chest 1987;81(4):341-348.
  50. Dano, G. Bronchospasm caused by acetylcysteine in children with bronchial asthma. Acta Allergol. 1971;26(3):181-190. DOI
  51. Howatt, W. F. and DeMuth, G. R. A double-blind study of the use of acetylcysteine in patients with cystic fibrosis. Univ Mich.Med Cent.J 1966;32(2):82-85.
  52. Millman, M. and Grundon, W. Use of acetylcysteine in bronchial asthma and emphysema. J Asthma Res 1969;6(4):199-209. PubMed
  53. Vale, J. A. and Wheeler, D. C. Anaphylactoid reaction to acetylcysteine. Lancet 10-30-1982;2(8305):988.
  54. Mant, T. G., Tempowski, J. H., Volans, G. N., and Talbot, J. C. Adverse reactions to acetylcysteine and effects of overdose. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 7-28-1984;289(6439):217-219. PubMed
  55. Myers, C., Bonow, R., Palmeri, S., Jenkins, J., Corden, B., Locker, G., Doroshow, J., and Epstein, S. A randomized controlled trial assessing the prevention of doxorubicin cardiomyopathy by N-acetylcysteine. Semin.Oncol 1983;10(1 Suppl 1):53-55.
  56. Miller, L. F. and Rumack, B. H. Clinical safety of high oral doses of acetylcysteine. Semin.Oncol 1983;10(1 Suppl 1):76-85.
  57. Boman, G., Backer, U., Larsson, S., Melander, B., and Wahlander, L. Oral acetylcysteine reduces exacerbation rate in chronic bronchitis: report of a trial organized by the Swedish Society for Pulmonary Diseases. Eur J Respir.Dis 1983;64(6):405-415.
  58. Tattersall, A. B., Bridgman, K. M., and Huitson, A. Irish general practice study of acetylcysteine (Fabrol) in chronic bronchitis. J Int Med Res 1984;12(2):96-101. PubMed
  59. Jackson, I. M., Barnes, J., and Cooksey, P. Efficacy and tolerability of oral acetylcysteine (Fabrol) in chronic bronchitis: a double-blind placebo controlled study. J Int Med Res 1984;12(3):198-206. PubMed
  60. Ho, S. W. and Beilin, L. J. Asthma associated with N-acetylcysteine infusion and paracetamol poisoning: report of two cases. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 9-24-1983;287(6396):876-877. PubMed
  61. Vale, J. A. and Buckley, B. M. Asthma associated with N-acetylcysteine infusion and paracetamol poisoning. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 10-22-1983;287(6400):1223. PubMed
  62. Bateman, D. N., Woodhouse, K. W., and Rawlins, M. D. Adverse reactions to N-acetylcysteine. Hum Toxicol. 1984;3(5):393-398. PubMed
  63. Gervais, S., Lussier-Labelle, F., and Beaudet, G. Anaphylactoid reaction to acetylcysteine. Clin Pharm 1984;3(6):586-587.
  64. Tattersall, A. B., Bridgman, K. M., and Huitson, A. Acetylcysteine (Fabrol) in chronic bronchitis--a study in general practice. J Int Med Res 1983;11(5):279-284. PubMed
  65. Casola, G. and vanSonnenberg, E. Skin damage from acetylcysteine leak during percutaneous abscess drainage. Radiology 1984;152(1):233. PubMed
  66. Aylward, M., Maddock, J., and Dewland, P. Clinical evaluation of acetylcysteine in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive bronchitis: a balanced double-blind trial with placebo control. Eur.J Respir.Dis.Suppl 1980;111:81-89.
  67. Long-term oral acetylcysteine in chronic bronchitis. a double-blind controlled study. Eur.J Respir.Dis.Suppl 1980;111:93-108.
  68. Chan, T. Y. and Critchley, J. A. Adverse reactions to intravenous N-acetylcysteine in Chinese patients with paracetamol (acetaminophen) poisoning. Hum Exp.Toxicol. 1994;13(8):542-544. PubMed
  69. Hansen, N. C., Skriver, A., Brorsen-Riis, L., Balslov, S., Evald, T., Maltbaek, N., Gunnersen, G., Garsdal, P., Sander, P., Pedersen, J. Z., and . Orally administered N-acetylcysteine may improve general well-being in patients with mild chronic bronchiti
  70. Reid, M. B., Stokic, D. S., Koch, S. M., Khawli, F. A., and Leis, A. A. N-acetylcysteine inhibits muscle fatigue in humans. J Clin Invest 1994;94(6):2468-2474. PubMed
  71. Chirkov, Y. Y. and Horowitz, J. D. N-Acetylcysteine potentiates nitroglycerin-induced reversal of platelet aggregation. J Cardiovasc.Pharmacol 1996;28(3):375-380. PubMed
  72. Hershkovitz, E., Shorer, Z., Levitas, A., and Tal, A. Status epilepticus following intravenous N-acetylcysteine therapy. Isr.J Med Sci 1996;32(11):1102-1104.
  73. Stavem, K. [Anaphylactic reaction to N-acetylcysteine after poisoning with paracetamol]. Tidsskr.Nor Laegeforen. 5-30-1997;117(14):2038-2039.
  74. Walton, N. G., Mann, T. A., and Shaw, K. M. Anaphylactoid reaction to N-acetylcysteine. Lancet 12-15-1979;2(8155):1298. PubMed
  75. Perry, H. E. and Shannon, M. W. Efficacy of oral versus intravenous N-acetylcysteine in acetaminophen overdose: results of an open-label, clinical trial. J Pediatr 1998;132(1):149-152. PubMed
  76. Kory, R. C., Hirsch, S. R., and Giraldo, J. Nebulization of N-acetylcysteine combined with a bronchodilator in patients with chronic bronchitis. A controlled study. Chest 1968;54(6):504-509. PubMed
  77. Nahir, A. M., Scharf, J. M., and Szargel, R. Effects of oral N-acetylcysteine on both ocular and oral manifestations of Sjogren's Syndrome. Curr Ther Res 1989;46:187-192.
  78. Charley, G., Dean, B. S., and Krenzelok, E. P. Oral N-acetylcysteine-induced urticaria: a case report. Vet.Hum Toxicol. 1987;29:477.
  79. Jenkins DD, Wiest DB, Mulvihill DM, et al. Fetal and neonatal effects of N-acetylcysteine when used for neuroprotection in maternal chorioamnionitis. J Pediatr. 2016 Jan;168:67-76.e6. PubMed
  80. Costa DLC, Diniz JB, Requena G, et al. Randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of N-acetylcysteine augmentation for treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder. J Clin Psychiatry. 2017 Jul;78(7):e799-e773.
  81. Kranzer K, Elamin WF, Cox H, Seddon JA, Ford N, Drobniewski F. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of N-acetylcysteine in preventing aminoglycoside-induced ototoxicity: implications for the treatment of multidrug-resistant TB.
  82. Wang W, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Xu L, Shi D. Severe chest pain due to N-acetylcysteine-induced esophagitis. Case Rep Med. 2019;2019:8057259.
  83. Li F, Welling MC, Johnson JA, et al. N-acetylcysteine for pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder: A small pilot study. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2020;30(1):32-37. PubMed
  84. Monti DA, Zabrecky G, Leist TP, et al. N-acetyl cysteine administration is associated with increased cerebral glucose metabolism in patients with multiple sclerosis: An exploratory study. Front Neurol. 2020;11:88. PubMed
  85. Gray KM, Carpenter MJ, Baker NL, et al. A double-blind randomized controlled trial of N-acetylcysteine in cannabis-dependent adolescents. Am J Psychiatry. 2012;169(8):805-12.
  86. Sarris J, Byrne G, Castle D, et al. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) augmentation in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: A phase III, 20-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022;117:110550 PubMed

See these in context on the N-acetyl Cysteine (nac) monograph →

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

Keep exploring