About n acetylcysteine
Mucolytic antioxidant
Used for
- Thins thick mucus in respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis.
- Used as an antidote for paracetamol overdose, usually in hospital.
Usual adult dose
For thick mucus: 600 mg by mouth once daily; overdose treatment uses a different supervised regimen.
Usual dose in children
For thick mucus, doses vary by age and product; paracetamol overdose treatment is weight-based and supervised.
Common side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Headache
- Rare allergic reactions or breathing difficulty
Important warnings
- Can worsen wheezing in people with asthma.
- Seek urgent medical care after suspected paracetamol overdose; do not rely on oral sachets.
- Check the leaflet for preparation and age restrictions.
Pregnancy
Use only when clinically necessary; pregnancy safety information is limited.
Breastfeeding
Use only when clinically necessary; breastfeeding safety information is limited.
Interactions
- May increase the effect of nitroglycerin, causing headache or low blood pressure.
- Some antibiotics may interact; separating doses by two hours is sometimes recommended.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.