N acetyl cysteine is derived from the amino acid L-cysteine. It has various uses in medicine. It is used as an antidote against acetaminophen and against poisoning due to carbon monoxide. It is prescribed for unstable angina, blockage in bile duct in newborn, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s disease and also for an eye infection named keratoconjunctivitis.
It is used in treating allergic reactions caused by anti-seizure medication called phenytoin. It can reduce homocysteine levels and risk of stroke and heart attack in patients suffering from chronic kidney disease.