Can You Take L-Arginine and NAC Together?

Dose or timing may matter

The short answer

NAC may reduce the nitric oxide-producing effects of L-arginine by scavenging peroxynitrite and modulating NOS (nitric oxide synthase) activity, potentially reducing L-arginine's vasodilatory benefits.

How to arrange timing

If using L-arginine for vasodilation or exercise performance, consider timing NAC separately.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Aruoma OI et al. The antioxidant action of N-acetylcysteine. Free Radic Biol Med. 1989;6(6):593-597

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.