N-acetyl cysteine for the treatment of alcohol use disorder: study protocol for a multi-site, double-blind randomised controlled trial (NAC-AUD study).

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Current treatments for alcohol use disorders (AUD) have limited efficacy. A previous 28-day pilot trial of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) vs placebo found NAC to be feasible and safe, with evidence of improvement on some measures of alcohol consumption. Thus, the primary aim of the NAC-AUD study is to examine the therapeutic and cost-effectiveness of NAC vs placebo in improving treatment outcomes for AUD. We will also examine the (i) effect of NAC vs placebo on mood, markers of liver injury, cognition and hangover symptoms; and (ii) predictors of any response.

Methods and analysis

This double-blind trial will randomise participants with AUD to a 12-week regimen of either NAC (2400 mg/day) or placebo. All participants will receive medical management. The primary drinkin

SUBMITTER: Morley K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12421191 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature