NACET: Review of Nootropic Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Updated on February 22, 2024
 by — reviewed by Jason Williams, PhD (Contributor: George Collins / Editor: Yoko Hill)
An article discussing the cognitive enhancement, dosage, and side effects of NACET as a nootropic.

In the dynamic world of health supplements, NACET stands out as a remarkable innovation. This unique ethyl ester form of N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) promises enhanced bioavailability and potency, making it a game-changer in the realm of cognitive and immune health.

As we unpack the science behind this potent antioxidant, we’ll explore how the ethyl ester form of NAC enhances its effectiveness, making it over 100 times more soluble than standard NAC.

Our review doesn’t just stop at the benefits; we also scrutinize the potential side effects and recommended dosages, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

With NACET, you’re not just choosing a supplement; you’re opting for a high-quality, scientifically-backed formula designed to enhance your health and well-being.

Let’s dive in!

What is NACET?

NACET (N-Acetylcysteine ethyl ester), an innovative ethyl ester form of N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC), is swiftly gaining recognition in the health supplement world.

This chemical derivative of L-cysteine (an amino acid) is more than just another supplement; it’s a potent antioxidant formula designed to significantly boost brain and immune health.(1) It includes NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) Ethyle Ester, Glycine, Selenium, and Molybdenum.

What sets NACET apart is its remarkable bioavailability, which is 20x more bioavailable than your standard Glutathione and NAC supplements. This means that when you take NACET, your body utilizes it more effectively.

This enhanced bioavailability translates into more potent antioxidant effects, particularly in boosting levels of the antioxidant glutathione (GSH), known as the body’s most powerful antioxidant.

NACET’s ability to fend off oxidative damage to cells makes it a double-edged blade in health maintenance. It not only helps protect the brain from free radical damage but also supports cognitive function, making it a perfect ally for long-term brain health.

Moreover, its role in immune health cannot be overstated; it helps fortify the immune system, offering protection against various health challenges.

So, whether you’re looking to boost your cognitive abilities, protect your body from oxidative damage, or support your immune system, NACET emerges as a top choice.

Its combination of high-quality ingredients, backed by research and a commitment to health, makes it not just a supplement but a powerful tool in your wellness regimen.

Pros:

  • Promotes improved cognitive function and brain health
  • Superior bioavailability compared to standard NAC and glutathione supplements
  • Anti-aging effects from the boost of glutathione production
  • Neuroprotective effects that protect the brain from oxidative stress

Cons:

  • Not approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
  • Lacking scientific research to back its specific benefits and long-term effects

Mechanism of Action

NACET, the ethyl ester form of N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC), functions in the body through a distinct mechanism of action, primarily centered around its role as a precursor to glutathione and its enhanced bioavailability compared to standard NAC.

  • Conversion to N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Once ingested, NACET is absorbed into the bloodstream. It’s more lipophilic (fat-soluble) due to the ethyl ester group, which allows for better absorption through the lipid membranes of cells. In the body, NACET is converted into N-Acetylcysteine (NAC).
  • Boosting Glutathione Levels: NAC is a precursor to glutathione, one of the body’s most crucial antioxidants. Glutathione plays a vital role in neutralizing free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and supporting the detoxification process in the liver. By increasing glutathione levels, NACET helps protect cells from oxidative damage, which is important for maintaining cellular health and preventing aging-related damage.
  • Direct Antioxidant Activity: Apart from being a precursor to glutathione, NAC itself has antioxidant properties. It directly scavenges free radicals, thereby contributing to its protective effects against oxidative stress.
  • Modulation of Neurotransmitter Activity and Inflammation: NACET, through its conversion to NAC, may influence the levels of glutamate in the brain. Glutamate is an important neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory. It also has anti-inflammatory effects. NAC has been shown to modulate the production of certain cytokines, which are signaling molecules that mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis.
  • Mucolytic Action: NAC, the active form derived from NACET, also acts as a mucolytic agent by breaking disulfide bonds in mucus, making it less viscous and easier to expel. This property is particularly useful in conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and bronchitis.

Nootropic Benefits of NACET

NACET is gaining attention in the nootropic community for its ability to improve cognitive functions and brain health. Its enhanced absorption over traditional NAC allows for better utilization within the brain, leading to various positive effects on mental performance and brain protection.

But, how exactly does NACET improve your cognitive health?

Here’s a list of the key nootropic benefits of NACET.

1. Enhances Glutathione Production

NACET boosts the production of glutathione, a key antioxidant in the brain. This helps in reducing oxidative stress and neuronal damage, which is crucial for maintaining cognitive health.(2)

2. Neuroprotective Properties

The antioxidant effects of NACET provide neuroprotection, which is valuable in preventing age-related cognitive decline and protecting against environmental neurotoxins.

By increasing antioxidant levels, NACET protects brain cells from oxidative stress, which otherwise impair cognitive functions and lead to neurodegenerative diseases.(3)

3. Modulates Neurotransmitter Levels

NACET influences neurotransmitters like glutamate, which plays a vital role in learning and memory. Balanced glutamate levels are essential for proper brain function.(4)

4. Improves Mental Health

NACET has been shown to have beneficial effects on mental health, potentially aiding in the management of conditions like depression and anxiety due to its impact on neurotransmitter regulation.(5)

5. Supports Cognitive Function

By protecting neurons and balancing neurotransmitters, NACET supports overall cognitive function, including memory, attention, and mental clarity.

6. Enhances Brain Blood Flow

Improved brain blood flow is essential for cognitive performance, and NACET’s role in vascular health contributes to better cerebral circulation.

7. Reduces Inflammatory Responses in the Brain

NACET modulates the inflammatory pathways in the brain, which is beneficial in reducing the risk of neuroinflammation-related cognitive impairment.(6)

Uses of NACET

NACET is utilized for a variety of health-related purposes due to its enhanced bioavailability and potent antioxidant properties.

Here are some of the primary uses of NACET:

  1. Boosting Antioxidant Levels: NACET is highly effective in increasing the body’s production of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. This makes it useful in combating oxidative stress and protecting cells from damage.
  2. Supporting Brain Health: Due to its potential neuroprotective properties, NACET is used to support brain health, enhance cognitive functions, and may help in the management of neurodegenerative diseases.
  3. Enhancing Immune Function: By boosting glutathione levels, NACET strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and diseases more effectively.
  4. Detoxification: NACET is used in detoxifying the liver, especially in cases of acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose, where it helps to prevent liver damage by restoring glutathione levels.
  5. Respiratory Health: As a mucolytic agent, NACET helps in breaking down mucus, making it beneficial for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like COPD or bronchitis.
  6. Psychiatric and Neurological Disorders: NACET is being explored for its potential benefits in treating psychiatric and neurological disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, due to its impact on neurotransmitters and neuroprotection.(7)
  7. Reducing Inflammatory Conditions: Its anti-inflammatory properties make NACET useful in managing chronic inflammatory conditions.
  8. Athletic Performance: Athletes may use NACET to reduce oxidative stress and improve recovery times after intense physical activity.
  9. Skin Health: NACET’s antioxidant properties can also be beneficial for skin health, helping to protect against damage from free radicals and possibly reducing signs of aging.
  10. Addiction Treatment: Some studies suggest that NACET could be beneficial in treating certain addictions by modulating neurotransmitter systems involved in addictive behavior.(8)

Where to Buy NACET

The search to find a reliable nootropics retailer online can be grueling, and sometimes costly.

Luckily, we have done an in-depth analysis to source the best online vendor for NACET.

LiftMode.com provides the best quality NACET powder, with third-party testing, shipping to your door, and positive customer reviews, we are sold on this world-renowned company!

NACET Dosage

For general health purposes, NAC (N-Acetyl L-Cysteine) supplements are typically taken in doses ranging from 600 to 1800 mg per day, usually divided into multiple doses.

Since NACET is more potent due to better absorption, the required dosage might be lower.

Here are some general NACET dosage guidelines:

  • For Antioxidant Support and General Health: A lower dose, possibly in the range of 300-600 mg per day, could be sufficient, considering NACET’s enhanced bioavailability.
  • For Specific Health Conditions: Higher doses might be required, but it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for guidance. Conditions such as chronic respiratory diseases or acute liver damage due to acetaminophen overdose (where NAC is traditionally used) might require specific dosing regimens.
  • For Cognitive or Neuroprotective Effects: Doses in the moderate range, similar to or slightly lower than standard NAC doses, may be effective, but again, specific dosing should be determined by a healthcare professional.
  • Frequency of Dosing: NACET might be taken once or twice daily, depending on the total daily dosage and the purpose of supplementation.

NACET Side Effects and Safety

NACET, as a derivative of N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC), generally shares similar safety profiles and potential side effects with it. However, due to its enhanced bioavailability, the intensity and occurrence of these side effects may differ. It’s important to note that while NACET is considered safe for most people when taken as recommended, there are some potential side effects and safety considerations to be aware of.

Common side effects include:

  • Gastrointestinal discomfort
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth

These are usually short-lived and disappear once your body adjusts to the NACET supplement.

Less common side effects include:

  1. Bad Breath and Body Odor: Due to its sulfur content, NACET can cause an unpleasant odor.
  2. Allergic Reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions like rash, itching, or difficulty breathing can occur, which would require immediate medical attention.

Safety Considerations:

  1. Asthma and Bronchospasm: People with asthma need to be cautious as NAC can cause bronchospasm. It’s advised to start with a lower dose and monitor symptoms.
  2. Interactions with Medications: NACET can interact with certain medications, including nitroglycerin and other nitrate medications used for heart conditions, which can cause severe headaches and other side effects.
  3. Bleeding Disorders: NACET may slow blood clotting. People with bleeding disorders or those on blood-thinning medications should be cautious.
  4. Surgery: Due to its potential effects on blood clotting, it’s recommended to stop using NACET at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Summary

In conclusion, NACET, the ethyl ester form of N-Acetyl L-Cysteine, emerges as a compelling addition to the world of health supplements.

Its enhanced bioavailability and potent antioxidant properties make it a standout choice for those seeking to bolster their overall health, particularly in areas of brain function, immune support, and detoxification.

While its benefits are manifold, ranging from neuroprotection to respiratory health support, it is crucial to approach NACET with a balanced perspective. Acknowledge both its potential and its limitations.

Therefore, users must consult healthcare professionals before incorporating it into their regimen, especially those with pre-existing conditions or those on medication.

FAQs

How long does NACET take to work?

For outcomes like enhanced cognitive function, neuroprotective effects, or overall antioxidant capacity, it might take several weeks to months of consistent use to observe significant changes.

What is the elimination half-life of NACET?

The half-life of N-Acetyl L-Cysteine is generally around 6 hours, but this can vary depending on individual factors like metabolism, age, and overall health. Since NACET is designed to be more bioavailable than NAC, its absorption and metabolism might differ, potentially affecting its elimination half-life. 

Should you cycle NACET?

The need to cycle NACET may depend on why you are taking it. For ongoing conditions like chronic respiratory issues or for consistent antioxidant support, continuous use might be more beneficial. However, for short-term goals or specific health interventions, cycling could be appropriate.

Can I stack NACET with other nootropics?

Yes. However, when stacking supplements, it’s wise to start with lower doses than you would use if taking each supplement individually. This approach helps gauge how the combination affects you and reduces the risk of adverse effects.

How should I store NACET?

Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect the stability of the supplement. Room temperature (around 68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C) is typically recommended.


Sources, Studies, and Scientific Research
  1. Giustarini, Daniela et al. “N-Acetylcysteine ethyl ester (NACET): a novel lipophilic cell-permeable cysteine derivative with an unusual pharmacokinetic feature and remarkable antioxidant potential.” Biochemical pharmacology vol. 84,11 (2012): 1522-33. doi:10.1016/j.bcp.2012.09.010 ↩
  2. Giustarini, Daniela et al. “N-acetylcysteine ethyl ester as GSH enhancer in human primary endothelial cells: A comparative study with other drugs.” Free radical biology & medicine vol. 126 (2018): 202-209. doi:10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2018.08.013 ↩
  3. Tosi, Gian Marco et al. “Superior Properties of N-Acetylcysteine Ethyl Ester over N-Acetyl Cysteine to Prevent Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Oxidative Damage.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 22,2 600. 9 Jan. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijms22020600 ↩
  4. Bavarsad Shahripour, Reza et al. “N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in neurological disorders: mechanisms of action and therapeutic opportunities.” Brain and behavior vol. 4,2 (2014): 108-22. doi:10.1002/brb3.208 ↩
  5. Kukoc-Modun, Lea et al. “Determination of N-Acetyl-l-cysteine Ethyl Ester (NACET) by Flow Injection Analysis and Spectrophotometric Detection Using Different Thiol-Sensitive Ligands.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 26,22 6826. 11 Nov. 2021, doi:10.3390/molecules26226826 ↩
  6. Bradlow, Richard C J et al. “The Potential of N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC) in the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders.” CNS drugs vol. 36,5 (2022): 451-482. doi:10.1007/s40263-022-00907-3 ↩
  7. Smaga, Irena et al. “N-acetylcysteine as a new prominent approach for treating psychiatric disorders.” British journal of pharmacology vol. 178,13 (2021): 2569-2594. doi:10.1111/bph.15456 ↩
  8. Ooi, Soo Liang et al. “N-Acetylcysteine for the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders: A Review of Current Evidence.” BioMed research international vol. 2018 2469486. 22 Oct. 2018, doi:10.1155/2018/2469486 ↩
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