Because interactions of glutamate with the dopaminergic system within the VTA mediate reward, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), a glutamate modulating agent, should attenuate the rewarding properties of DSH by interfering with DSH-induced stimulation of the mesolimbic dopaminergic pathway. NAC increases the activity of cysteine-glutamate antiporters in the nucleus accumbens and abolishes reward-seeking behavior. Behaviorally, NAC administration should lead to diminished urges to engage in DSH. Increased extracellular glutamate by NAC may correct the underlying pathophysiology and symptoms of this compulsive drive to self-injure. NAC has been extensively studied in a variety of medical problems (e.g., cocaine dependence, acetaminophen overdose, AIDS, gambling), and its lack of significant side effects may present a marked advantage over pharmacological agents.