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Several studies suggest benefits for schizophrenia patients with N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a nutraceutical precursor to the antioxidant glutathione that in the brain affects inflammation, transmission of glutamate, mitochondrial energy generation, and apoptosis, all of which are dysregulated in schizophrenia. In addition, low glutathione levels have been associated with cognitive impairment. To better understand the potential value of NAC for schizophrenia, investigators conducted a meta-analysis.
Systematic review yielded seven studies meeting study criteria (randomized, placebo-controlled trials assessing specific psychotic and cognitive symptoms in patients with schizophrenia or first-episode psychosis); all had low risk of bias. Among the …