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Acetylcysteine Information

Acetylcysteine (Acetylcysteine) is a remarkably versatile medication with different uses. It is a modified form of the amino acid cysteine with antioxidant and mucolytic properties. Acetylcysteine is used as the antidote of choice in the treatment of acetaminophen overdose and to prevent potential liver damage. This is arguably its most critical use in emergency medicine. When someone takes a toxic amount of acetaminophen, the body produces a harmful metabolite called N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI). Normally, glutathione detoxifies this, but in an overdose, the glutathione reserves are quickly depleted. Acetylcysteine replenishes the liver's glutathione stores, allowing the body to neutralize the toxic NAPQI and prevent severe liver damage or failure.

Furthermore, Acetylcysteine is used for certain respiratory conditions to clear the airways. It is used in common respiratory conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, where excessive or thick secretions are a problem. Acetylcysteine functions as a mucolytic by breaking the disulfide bonds in the mucoproteins found in dense, sticky mucus. This action effectively reduces the viscosity and stickiness of the mucus, making it much easier for patients to cough it up or have it suctioned out. This is also why it may be used for diagnostic studies, such as a diagnostic bronchogram, to obtain a clear view of the airway.

Clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of Acetylcysteine in various contexts. In the treatment of acetaminophen overdose, it's highly effective, primarily when used within the first 8 hours of paracetamol overdose. While it is still useful when used within the first 24 hours of overdose, its efficacy does reduce as the time interval increases. As a mucolytic agent, it has shown efficacy in reducing mucus viscosity and improving symptoms in conditions such as chronic bronchitis and cystic fibrosis.

Acetylcysteine Side Effects

Like any medication, Acetylcysteine can cause unwanted effects. Some common mild side effects of this medication include mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and drowsiness. Contact your doctor if these mild side effects persist or worsen. Others include headache, ringing in the ears, stomach pain, and a fast heart rate.

Stop taking this medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, body itching, body rash, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat;
• Blistering, peeling, bleeding, scaling, or fluid-filled patches on any part of your skin;
• Severe bleeding with symptoms like black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Acetylcysteine Precautions

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to Acetylcysteine, the inactive ingredients in this medication, or any other medications. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Abdominal problems such as peptic ulcers;
• Asthma

Talk to your doctor before using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please do not use it in children under 12 years of age. Some medications, such as antibiotics, carbamazepine, and angina medications, can interact with Acetylcysteine, causing harmful adverse drug interactions. Therefore, before using this medication, inform your doctor about any other medications you are currently taking, including herbal medicines and supplements, to determine if it is safe to use along with Acetylcysteine.

Acetylcysteine is available as effervescent tablets to be taken orally as prescribed. It is also available as injectable vials, which should be diluted with water for injection and given by your doctor or nurse into a vein. Your doctor will determine the appropriate formulation, route of administration, dose, and duration of treatment for you based on your condition and other factors. Check the leaflet in the medication pack for usage instructions for each formulation. Store the tablets or injection vials in the original container at room temperature (below 25°C) and keep away from children and pets. The diluted injection vials should be used within 3 hours.

Do I need a prescription to order Acetylcysteine?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Acetylcysteine.