Details

Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic agent, prescribed for chronic bronchopulmonary disease, cystic fibrosis and others. It works by thinning of mucus and ease its removal. It is also used in the management of paracetamol overdose. It works by thinning of mucus and ease its removal. It breaks down mucus, the substance that lubricates many parts of the body such as the mouth, throat, and lungs. The recommended dose of acetylcysteine for most patients is 3 to 5 ml of the 20% solution or 6 to 10 ml of the 10% solution three to four times a day.

Typical Uses

Acetylcysteine inhalation is used to thin the mucus in people with certain lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis, emphysema, bronchitis, pneumonia, or tuberculosis. Acetylcysteine inhalation is also used during surgery or anaesthesia, and to prepare the throat or lungs for a medical test. Acetylcysteine inhalation may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Side Effects

In addition to its positive effects, some unwanted effects may be caused by acetylcysteine. In the event that any of these side effects do occur, they may require medical attention. These side effects may include flushing, cough, or bone pain/stiffness, itching of skin, slow heart rate, muscle, blurred vision, Nausea, feeling of discomfort, sweating, skin rash, abnormal blood counts, vomiting, low blood pressure, puffy eyes, swelling of eyes and lips, high blood pressure, constriction of air passages or respiratory distress, deterioration of liver function, facial or eye pain, joint, chest tightness or pain, raised temperature, fits, increased heart rate.

Drug Interactions

• Acetylcysteine+insulin - Using insulin inhalation, rapid acting together with other inhaled products such as acetylcysteine may affect the absorption of insulin into the bloodstream. This may alter the effectiveness of the insulin.

Mechanism of action

Acetylcysteine acts against the chemicals (metabolites) that are produced during paracetamol overdose. In lung diseases, it helps in thinning the mucus which helps in clearing the mucus from the lungs.

Pregnancy Category : B