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

NCT ID NCT02966873

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Medical University of South Carolina Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

ADDICTION ALCOHOL ABUSE POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)

Contacts and locations

Locations

Medical University of South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, 29401, United States
The Charleston Center

Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States

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