N-Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) -- Gambling Addictions, Addictive Behavior Support

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N-Acetyl Cysteine May Help Reduce Gambling and Other Addictions by Vitamin Research Staff -- Used by Permission Researchers have released the results of a new study that indicates supplementation with N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) may reduce addictive behavior in compulsive gamblers as well as individuals with other addictions. N-acetyl cysteine is thought to restore extracellular concentrations of the chemical glutamate, which is often associated with reward in the brain. This ability led researchers to believe NAC could have a promising role to play in minimizing addictive behavior.  The researchers enrolled 27 pathological gamblers (12 women) in an 8-week trial of NAC.  The first part of the study was an open trial where subjects each consumed daily doses of NAC.  In this part of the study, 16 of 27 subjects (59.3 percent) reported experiencing less urges to gamble.  The effective dose of NAC ranged from 1,100 to 1,700 mg per day. Of those 16 subjects, 13 went on to participate in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of NAC. Of those subjects given NAC, 83.3 percent experienced a reduced compulsion to gamble compared with only 28.6 percent of those assigned to a placebo. The study authors concluded, “The efficacy of NAC lends support to the hypothesis that pharmacological manipulation of the glutamate system might target core symptoms of reward-seeking addictive behaviors such as gambling.  Larger, longer, placebo-controlled, double-blind studies are warranted.” Similar studies of N-acetyl cysteine have shown it can curb drug addictions in animals.  However, the researchers of the current study believe their study was the first to look at the effects of a glutamate-modulating agent in pathological gamblers.  The researchers are currently investigating whether NAC could help methamphetamine users quit. Reference:  Grant JE, Kim SW, Odlaug BL. N-acetyl cysteine, a glutamate-modulating agent, in the treatment of pathological gambling: a pilot study. Biol Psychiatry. 2007 Sep 15;62(6):652-7.   Editors Note:  Concerning other addictions, an additional consideration is to use kudzu and d,l phenylalanine in association with l-glutamine for lessening the desire for alcohol and carbohydrates.  Lithium orotate also shows promise in the addictions arena.  There seems to be a synergistic relationship with all of these combined compared to any one single nutrient alone.  In addition, activated charcoal/bentonite clay is the preferred choice for detoxification of toxic substances and other poisons that can build-up in our bodies.   Dosage and Use:  Take one capsule one to three times daily with or without food, or as recommended by a healthcare practitioner.  When taking N-acetyl cysteine, it is recommended that two to three times as much vitamin C (included in Anti-Alcohol Antioxidants) be taken at the same time. Caution:  Those who supplement with NAC should drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily in order to prevent cysteine renal stones.  Cysteine renal stones are rare but do occur. Warnings: Keep out of reach of children Do not exceed recommended dose If you have a bad reaction, discontinue use immediately When using N-Acetyl L-Cysteine for gambling addictions or addictive behavior support, please inform your physician. N-Acetyl Cysteine - Ingredients/Dose/Information Diabetes & Alcohol | Fatty Livers, Alcohol, & Artichoke Order:  N-Acetyl L-Cysteine | Kudzu Herb Supplements | L-Glutamine | Lithium Orotate Special Sale!  In addition to your 25% off, you get another 10% automatic volume discount at checkout on orders of $25 or more ... all items apply (including special sale items).  SECURE SHOPPING CART CREDIT CARD PURCHASES ONLY.  Call-ins do not receive this special discount. or, send check, money order, or cashiers check with completed order form

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