Perth researchers are trialling a pill which could help those addicted to methamphetamine.

The world-first trial of N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) being taken by drug addicts aims to reduce the cravings and mood swings.

Researchers believe it could also be used for a range of illegal drugs, including cocaine and cannabis.

In Australia 160,000 people are dependent on ice. Picture: AAP (AAP)

Lead researcher and NDRI Associate Professor Rebecca McKetin says it works by restoring the balance of chemicals in the brain.

“When someone first takes ice they experience the desirable effects of intoxication. But if they continue to use, and become dependent, changes occur in the brain that cause cravings, making it hard to stop using ice,” Professor McKetin said.

Trial participants take two NAC tablets a day, once in the morning and once at night for 12 weeks.

In Australia 160,000 people are dependent on ice.

Associate Professor Peter Kelly from the University of Wollongong said there was currently no approved medication to treat ice addiction.

“The main forms of treatment are counselling interventions and residential rehabilitation - for this reason trialling NAC introduces a novel approach to treating ice addiction,” he said.

“The hope is that NAC can help break the addiction cycle and help people stop using ice.”

Western Australia is at the centre of a national ice problem with country towns such as Bunbury and Kalgoorlie being some of the top drug hot spots in the nation.

If successful, the drug could be rolled out nation-wide next year.

Users would be able to approach their local doctor for a prescription of the drug.