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N-Acetylcysteine for Nonsuicidal Self-Injurious Behavior in Adolescents: An Open-Label Pilot Study
Kathryn R Cullen1, Bonnie Klimes-Dougan2, Melinda Westlund Schreiner2
11 Department of Psychiatry, Medical School, University of Minnesota , Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology
|October 21, 2017
Summary
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) shows promise in reducing nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents. This pilot study found NAC decreased NSSI frequency, depression, and psychopathology, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is prevalent in adolescents and young adults.
- Limited evidence-based treatments exist for NSSI.
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has shown potential in mood and addictive disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a potential treatment for NSSI in adolescents.
- To assess the safety and tolerability of NAC in this population.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study with 35 female adolescents and young adults (aged 13-21) with NSSI.
- Open-label, single-arm design with escalating oral NAC doses over 8 weeks.
- NSSI frequency, depression (BDI-II), impulsivity (BIS), and psychopathology (SCL-90) were measured.
Main Results:
- NAC was generally well tolerated.
- A significant decrease in NSSI frequency was observed at weeks 6 and 8.
- Depression and global psychopathology scores decreased, but impulsivity scores did not.
Conclusions:
- Preliminary evidence suggests NAC may be a promising treatment for adolescent NSSI.
- Further investigation via randomized, placebo-controlled trials is needed to confirm efficacy.
