Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels did not improve with N-Acetylcysteine administration or with abstinence in adults treated for alcohol use disorder: a secondary analysis of a randomized, double-blind, placebocontrolled clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE

N-acetylcysteine is a medication known for its hepatoprotective properties and potential to reduce cravings and psychoactive substance use. Vitamin D is metabolized in the liver, and individuals with alcohol use disorder often have lower levels. This study assessed the effects of N-acetylcysteine administration on 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) in adults being treated for alcohol use disorder.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with 47 male alcohol use disorder patients who received either N-acetylcysteine (600 mg twice daily, n=22) or placebo (n=25) for 8 weeks. Blood samples were analyzed to assess 25(OH)D levels, liver and renal functions, and glutathione metabolism. The effects of time, intervention, and their interaction on 25(OH)D level were evaluated using generalized estimating equations.

RESULTS

Upon hospitalization, 45% and 21.7% of the patients had 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency, respectively. After 8 weeks, 43.3% and 40% of the patients had 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency, respectively. Intervention (N-acetylcysteine vs. placebo) (p = 0.130), study time (p = 0.429), and their interaction (p = 0.834) showed no significant effect on 25(OH)D levels.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a high prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency in alcohol use disorder patients. Levels of 25(OH)D did not improve spontaneously with abstinence, and N-acetylcysteine intervention did not significantly affect 25(OH)D concentrations.