A gentle antioxidant with real PCOS and fertility evidence — it pairs naturally with inositol.
NAC (N-acetylcysteine) is a precursor to glutathione, the body's master antioxidant. In women's health, it has gathered evidence for improving insulin sensitivity and ovulation in PCOS, and for supporting fertility and liver health — working partly by reducing the oxidative stress linked to these conditions.
For PCOS and fertility, the evidence is moderate and genuinely interesting — some trials compare NAC favourably to standard options for improving ovulation, and it is often used alongside inositol. The honest framing: it is a reasonable, well-tolerated targeted supplement with real (if not definitive) data, strongest in PCOS and fertility settings rather than as a general tonic.
PCOS with insulin resistance or ovulation problems, fertility support, and general antioxidant or liver support.
A common dose is 600–1,200 mg/day, often split into two doses, with or without food. PCOS studies sometimes use up to 1,800 mg.
Take it once or twice daily. It can be taken with or between meals; some find it gentler on the stomach with food.
Generally well tolerated; occasional nausea or stomach upset, and some products have a mild sulphur smell.
Myo-inositol (a natural PCOS partner), omega-3 and vitamin D.
Avoid combining it with nitroglycerin (a blood-pressure interaction). If you have asthma, check with your doctor, as NAC can occasionally affect the airways.
Anyone with asthma, on nitroglycerin or blood-pressure medication, or pregnant (use only with medical advice).
Plain N-acetylcysteine capsules at 600 mg, third-party tested.
NAC is a gentle, useful antioxidant with real evidence in PCOS and fertility, pairing naturally with inositol. Take 600–1,200 mg daily — and check first if you have asthma or take nitroglycerin.
Trials and reviews of NAC for ovulation and insulin in PCOS; research on NAC and glutathione; safety information on NAC interactions.
These are trusted places to buy. They're affiliate links — if you buy through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only link to supplements with real evidence behind them.
Based on guidance from the NHS, NICE, Cleveland Clinic and peer-reviewed research.
General information, not a substitute for personal medical advice — always consult your doctor or a qualified health professional before making health decisions. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, under 18, or taking medication, speak to your doctor before starting any supplement.