Significantly lower risk is seen for mortality, hospitalization, and cases. 11 studies from 11 independent teams in 8 countries show significant benefit.
Meta analysis using the most serious outcome reported shows 25% [14‑35%] lower risk. Results are similar for Randomized Controlled Trials, higher quality studies, and peer-reviewed studies.
Results are very robust — in exclusion sensitivity analysis 16 of 24 studies must be excluded to avoid finding statistically significant efficacy in pooled analysis.
No treatment is 100% effective. Protocols combine safe and effective options with individual risk/benefit analysis and monitoring. Other treatments are more effective. All data and sources to reproduce this analysis are in the appendix.
Alam et al. present another meta analysis for N-acetylcysteine, showing significant improvement for mortality.
Covid Analysis et al., Dec 2024, preprint, 1 author.