Overview

L-cysteine is a type of amino acid, which are the building blocks of proteins. The body makes L-cysteine from another amino acid called methionine.

L-cysteine is naturally found in foods, but because it's made in the body it doesn't need to be consumed in the diet. L-cysteine has antioxidant effects and is used to make up antioxidants such as glutathione.

People use L-cysteine for cancer, diabetes, hangover, stroke, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse L-cysteine with N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC). These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for L-CYSTEINE overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: L-cysteine is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if L-cysteine is safe when used in larger amounts as medicine or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: L-cysteine is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if L-cysteine is safe when used in larger amounts as medicine or what the side effects might be.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: L-cysteine is commonly consumed in foods. But there isn't enough reliable information to know if L-cysteine is safe to use in larger amounts as medicine while pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Surgery: L-cysteine might interfere with blood sugar control during surgery. Stop taking L-cysteine at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions ?

    Moderate Interaction

    Be cautious with this combination

  • Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with L-CYSTEINE

    L-cysteine might lower blood sugar levels. Taking L-cysteine along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.

Dosing

L-cysteine is naturally found in foods. But as medicine, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of L-cysteine might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.