Could a common cough medicine ingredient soothe eczema?

NCT ID NCT07323719

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a cream containing N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) could improve mild-to-moderate eczema better than plain cold cream. One hundred people with eczema used either the NAC cream or a placebo cold cream. Researchers measured changes in skin bacteria (Staph) and eczema severity scores to see if NAC helps calm the rash and reduce germs.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) 10% in cold cream

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new topical option for mild-to-moderate eczema that targets both inflammation and skin bacteria without antibiotics.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed trial with no phase designation. The results may not apply to severe eczema, and NAC cream might not outperform standard treatments or cause skin irritation.

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.

atopic eczema

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Cairo Unversity

    Cairo, Egypt