Effects of N-acetylcysteine on substance use in bipolar disorder: A randomised placebo-controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on substance use in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of NAC in bipolar disorder. It is hypothesised that NAC will be superior to placebo for reducing scores on the Clinical Global Impressions scale for Substance Use (CGI-SU). Methods: Participants were randomised to 6-months of treatment with 2 g/day NAC (n = 38) or placebo (n = 37). Substance use was assessed at baseline using the Habits instrument. Change in substance use was assessed at regular study visits using the CGI-SU. Results: Amongst the 75 participants 78.7% drank alcohol (any frequency), 45.3% smoked tobacco and 92% consumer caffeine. Other substances were used ..