For professionals in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, a thorough understanding of key compounds is essential for successful product development and procurement. N-Acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), with the CAS number 616-91-1, is a prominent amino acid derivative widely utilized for its therapeutic benefits. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of NAC, including its chemical and physical properties, primary applications, and essential considerations for sourcing this vital compound from reliable manufacturers and suppliers.

NAC, chemically known as N-acetyl-L-cysteine, has the molecular formula C5H9NO3S and a molecular weight of 163.20. Its appearance is typically described as white crystals or a crystalline powder. The compound's typical properties, such as a specific rotation of 21.3-27.0°, a melting point between 106-110°C, and a pH range of 2.0-2.8, are critical indicators of its quality and suitability for various applications. Furthermore, low levels of heavy metals (≤10ppm) and loss on drying (≤0.50%) are standard quality benchmarks.

Key Applications of N-Acetyl-L-cysteine

NAC serves multiple crucial functions in the medical and pharmaceutical sectors:

  • Mucolytic Agent: It is widely used in the treatment of respiratory conditions where thick, viscous mucus is a problem. By reducing mucus viscosity, NAC facilitates easier expectoration, offering relief for patients with conditions like bronchitis and cystic fibrosis. This makes it a valuable ingredient for pharmaceutical manufacturers specializing in respiratory care.
  • Acetaminophen Poisoning Antidote: NAC is a critical antidote for acetaminophen overdose. It helps protect the liver from damage by replenishing glutathione levels and directly neutralizing toxic metabolites. This application underscores the importance of sourcing high-purity NAC for emergency medicine.

It's important to note specific usage guidelines. NAC is generally not suitable for contact with metals like Fe or Cu, oxidants, and should be used with caution alongside certain antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalosporin, and tetracycline, as it can reduce their antibacterial effects. Patients with bronchial asthma should also use it cautiously.

Sourcing NAC: A Procurement Perspective

For businesses looking to buy N-Acetyl-L-cysteine, selecting the right supplier is paramount. When you source from a reputable manufacturer in China, you gain access to:

  • Consistent Quality: Adherence to stringent quality control, ensuring the specified properties of NAC.
  • Competitive Pricing: Efficient manufacturing processes often lead to cost-effective solutions for bulk purchases.
  • Reliable Supply: A stable supply chain is essential to meet ongoing production demands.

Understanding the product's specifications, applications, and handling requirements will empower procurement managers to make informed decisions. N-Acetyl-L-cysteine is a compound of significant therapeutic value, and securing a dependable source is key to successful product development and patient care. We are committed to being your trusted supplier of high-quality N-Acetyl-L-cysteine, providing the materials essential for your pharmaceutical innovations.