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N-Acetylcysteine Amide
N-Acetylcysteine Amide (NACA) acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant that replenishes intracellular glutathione to protect cells from oxidative stress.
N-Acetylcysteine Amide (NACA) acts as a free radical scavenger and antioxidant that replenishes intracellular glutathione to protect cells from oxidative stress. Used for Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Retinal dystrophies and inherited retinal diseases.
At a glance
| Generic name | N-Acetylcysteine Amide |
|---|---|
| Also known as | NPI-001 |
| Sponsor | Nacuity Pharmaceuticals, Inc. |
| Drug class | Antioxidant / Free radical scavenger |
| Target | Intracellular glutathione synthesis; free radicals / reactive oxygen species |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Ophthalmology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
NACA is a modified form of N-acetylcysteine that crosses cell membranes more efficiently to increase intracellular glutathione levels. By boosting cellular antioxidant defenses, it reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative damage. This mechanism is particularly relevant for retinal and ocular conditions where oxidative stress contributes to cell death and degeneration.
Approved indications
- Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Retinal dystrophies and inherited retinal diseases
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Gastrointestinal disturbance
Key clinical trials
- Microbiological Characteristics of Biofilm on Double J Ureteral Stents After Lithotripsy. (PHASE4)
- 24-Month Trial of NPI-001 for the Preservation of Photoreceptors in Retinitis Pigmentosa Associated With Usher Syndrome (PHASE3)
- PK and PD Study of NPI-001 and Cysteamine Bitartrate (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Acetaminophen in aSAH to Inhibit Lipid Peroxidation and Cerebral Vasospasm (PHASE3)
- Clinical Effects of New Approach on Patients With Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Mechanisms of N-acetylcysteine Mediated Vascular Adverse Effects (NA)
- Effect of Acetaminophen and N-Acetylcysteine on Liver Metabolism on Homocystinuria (PHASE1, PHASE2)
- Overcoming Membrane Transporters to Improve CNS Drug Delivery - Improving Brain Antioxidants After Traumatic Brain Injury (PHASE1, PHASE2)
Primary sources
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| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |