Acetylcysteine
Generic Details
Generic Name
Acetylcysteine
Other Names
- N-acetylcysteine
- NAC
Drug Class
- Mucolytic agent
- Antidote for Acetaminophen overdose
Chemical Formula
C5H9NO3S
Molecular Weight
163.19 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Thins and loosens mucus in the airways
- Restores glutathione levels to detoxify acetaminophen metabolites
Indications
- Acute and chronic bronchitis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Effervescent powder
- Solution for inhalation
- Solution for intravenous infusion
Typical Dosage
- 600-1200 mg orally, twice daily for bronchitis
- 300 mg orally, 3-4 times a day for acetaminophen overdose
Pediatric Dosage
- 10-20% reduction from adult dosage for children
Geriatric Dosage
- Dose adjustment may be needed based on renal function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Bronchospasm
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to acetylcysteine
Pregnancy Category
- Pregnancy category B in oral form
Lactation Safety
- Compatible with breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- Nitroglycerin
- Activated charcoal
Overdose Symptoms
- Bronchospasm
- Hypotension
- Death (with extremely high doses)
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care
- Intravenous fluids
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Distributed widely in body tissues
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted mainly in the urine
Precautions
- Asthma patients should be monitored for bronchospasm
Warnings
- Should be used with caution in patients with peptic ulcer disease
Others
- Can also be used as a mucolytic agent in respiratory conditions