NAC in a bipolar patient
Age: 39
Sex/Gender: AFAB
Meds: pantoprazole, abilify, lamictal, clonazepam, doxepin
Supplements: fish oil, niacinamide, Lutein/Zeaxanthin, iron, melatonin
Dx: acid reflux, sleep apnea, RBD, non-rem behavior disorder, bipolar, autism, rosacea, essential tremor
I have suspected OCD as I have issues with repetitive behaviors generally AND body focused repetitive behaviors. My husband agrees and said he would not be surprised if I have OCD based on how I run my life, although there would be some overlap with ASD. I cannot take anything that affects serotonin because of the bipolar. They trigger hypomania in me historically (SSRIs, SNRIs, etc.). Is NAC (N-acetylcysteine) safe to use for OCD in patients with bipolar? From what I understand it is frequently recommended for OCD.
FWIW, I am looking into alternative ways to handle BFRB. I'm starting to use fake/gel nails to prevent picking and seeking a therapist to handle it. Just looking for anything I can do to help further.
Posted Jun 27, 2026, 7:20 AM UTC