Exploring the Novel Therapeutic Potential of N-acetylcysteine in Depression, Bipolar Disorders and Anxiety

• Published in: Journal of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapeutics Vol. 15; no. 2; pp. 133 - 141
• Main Authors: Syiem, Reuben P., Wahlang, Julie B., R., Krishnamoorthi, Kalyan, Pavan B., Nahakpam, Diana, Langstieh, Arky Jane
• Format: Book Review Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New Delhi, India SAGE Publications 01-06-2024; Sage Publications Ltd
• Subjects: Anxiety; Bipolar disorder; Mental depression; bipolar disorder; depression; Anxiety disorders; novel therapeutics; N-acetylcysteine
• ISSN: 0976-500X; 0976-5018
• DOI: 10.1177/0976500X241246402

Background
Anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and depression are prevalent mental health issues that have a substantial impact on both individuals and the community. Many people continue to have symptoms and do not get the right kind of relief from their existing drugs, even after trying conventional therapy methods. Therefore, to enhance the current treatment modalities and patient results, new therapeutic alternatives are required. In recent years, there has been an increase in interest in N-acetylcysteine (NAC) because of its many biological benefits, including its ability to modulate glutamate levels and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According to studies, NAC has encouraging anti-depressant properties and may help treat bipolar disease by stabilizing mood and reducing the risk of relapses. Furthermore, through lowering oxidative stress and modifying neurotransmitter networks, NAC has been shown to lessen the symptoms of anxiety. The preclinical and clinical research examining the efficacy of NAC in depression, bipolar disorders, and anxiety are thoroughly analyzed in this review.
Methodology
Books were reviewed and medical and scientific literature found in MEDLINE and PubMed were analyzed for an assessment of NAC’s therapeutic potential in psychiatric illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Conclusion
NAC exhibits potential as a therapeutic agent for psychiatric problems such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression. Performing a thorough clinical study will facilitate proper understanding its efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action.