About acetylcysteine
Mucolytic antioxidant
Used for
- Thins thick mucus in respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis.
- Treats acetaminophen overdose using a separate, medically supervised regimen.
Usual adult dose
For mucus: 200 mg three times daily, or 600 mg once daily. Overdose treatment requires a different regimen.
Usual dose in children
For mucus: ages 2–6 years, 100 mg two to three times daily; ages 7–14 years, 200 mg twice daily. Not for children under 2 unless prescribed.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort
- Unpleasant taste or odor
- Rash or itching
- Rarely, breathing difficulty or severe allergic reaction
Important warnings
- Can cause bronchospasm, especially in people with asthma.
- Seek urgent care for suspected acetaminophen overdose; treatment is time-sensitive.
- Oral acetylcysteine products and dosing differ from inhaled or overdose-treatment formulations.
- Check the product leaflet for age limits and preparation instructions.
Pregnancy
Use only when needed after clinician assessment; pregnancy data are limited.
Breastfeeding
Transfer into breast milk is uncertain; use after clinician assessment.
Interactions
- Activated charcoal may reduce absorption.
- May intensify nitroglycerin-related headache and low blood pressure.
- Some antibiotics may interact; separate doses when advised.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.