C9H9NO2S

C9H9NO2S is the molecular formula for several chemical compounds, including but not limited to N-acetyl-L-cysteine and various isomers of this structure. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the amino acid cysteine. It is an important pharmaceutical agent and a dietary supplement.

As a supplement, NAC is often used for its antioxidant properties. It is a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. This mechanism underlies its use in various health conditions, although its efficacy and safety for all claimed applications are subjects of ongoing research and vary in scientific consensus.

In a medical context, NAC is prescribed for certain respiratory conditions. It acts as a mucolytic agent, meaning it helps break down and thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. This property makes it useful in managing conditions such as chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, and other lung diseases characterized by excessive mucus production. It is also used as an antidote for acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose, where it helps replenish glutathione levels in the liver, mitigating the toxic effects of the drug.

The synthesis of compounds with the molecular formula C9H9NO2S can involve various organic chemistry reactions, typically starting with cysteine or related sulfur-containing amino acids and acetylating agents. The specific properties and applications of a compound with this formula depend heavily on its precise structural arrangement, with NAC being the most widely recognized and utilized example.