About acetylcysteine
Mucolytic; acetaminophen antidote
Used for
- Thins mucus in certain lung conditions when inhaled.
- Treats acetaminophen overdose by intravenous infusion.
Usual adult dose
Acetaminophen overdose: intravenous dose is weight-based, given in a multi-step infusion over about 20 hours; protocol varies.
Usual dose in children
Acetaminophen overdose: intravenous dose is weight-based and adjusted for children under 40 kg; protocol varies.
Common side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Flushing, rash, or itching
- Wheezing or breathing difficulty
- Low blood pressure or infusion reactions
Important warnings
- Intravenous use requires supervised administration and monitoring.
- Infusion reactions can include severe allergy-like symptoms and breathing problems.
- Dose and fluid volume must be adjusted for body weight and clinical condition.
- Mucus-thinning use depends on route and local product approval.
Pregnancy
For overdose, treatment may be used when clinically needed; untreated poisoning can seriously harm the pregnant person and fetus.
Breastfeeding
For overdose, treatment may be used when clinically needed; ask a clinician about breastfeeding during treatment.
Interactions
- Activated charcoal may reduce absorption if taken by mouth; this is generally irrelevant to intravenous treatment.
- May increase effects of nitroglycerin, including headache and low blood pressure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.