Can a common supplement help tame alcohol cravings and PTSD symptoms?

NCT ID NCT02966873

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a widely available supplement, could help people with both alcohol use disorder and PTSD. 182 adults took either NAC or a placebo daily for 12 weeks, along with weekly therapy. Researchers measured changes in drinking habits, cravings, and PTSD symptoms to see if NAC offered any extra benefit.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for people struggling with both alcohol use disorder and PTSD.

What could go wrong

This is a Phase 2 trial with 182 participants, so results are preliminary. The supplement NAC may not prove effective, and individual responses can vary.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

alcohol abuse Behavior, Addictive post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Medical University of South Carolina

    Charleston, South Carolina, 29401, United States

  • The Charleston Center

    Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States