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Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1- To treat acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose 2- To treat respiratory disease with thick mucus secretion |
| Common Side Effects | 1- Mild nausea 2- Stomach upset 3- Vomiting |
| Additional Information | Avoid taking alcohol or tobacco with this medicine. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | The medicine should be taken orally |
Acetylcysteine Summary
Acetylcysteine 600 mg is a powerful mucolytic agent used to treat paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose and respiratory conditions with thick mucus like COPD and cystic fibrosis. It works by replenishing glutathione, a key antioxidant that helps detoxify harmful substances in the liver, preventing damage. In lung conditions, it breaks down thick mucus by disrupting its structure, making it easier to clear and improving breathing. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Common side effects include chest tightness, rash, or fever; severe ones like irregular heartbeat or breathing issues are rare. Consult your doctor if you have liver issues or allergies. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Avoid alcohol. In case of overdose (nausea, seizures, confusion), seek immediate medical help.
Acetylcysteine uses
Acetylcysteine 600 mg is an oral medicine belonging to the class of mucolytic agent’s medicines. It is used for the following indications:
- Acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose
- Respiratory disease with thick mucus secretion
Directions for use
- Take acetylcysteine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, regularly at the same time each day.
- Do not stop taking acetylcysteine without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.
- If you forget to take the medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one, then just skip it.
Acetylcysteine side effects
More Common
- Mild nausea
- stomach upset
- Vomiting
Less Common
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Difficulty with breathing or swallowing
- Dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
- Feeling of warmth
- Fever
- Hives or itching
- Large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
- Nausea
- Rash with or without a fever
- Reddening of the skin, especially around the ears
- Redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest
- Severe or ongoing vomiting
- Sweating
- Swelling of the eyes, face, or inside of the nose
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
How Acetylcysteine works
Acetylcysteine protects the liver in acetaminophen overdose by replenishing glutathione, detoxifying harmful metabolites, and improving oxygen delivery. It also thins mucus by breaking disulfide bonds, making it easier to clear, while reducing inflammation in lung conditions like COPD and cystic fibrosis.
Safety Measures and Warning
📌 1- Allergy/Hypersensitivity
If you have had an allergy to this medicine before, inform your doctor.
📌 2- Liver Disease
If you have an existing liver disease, inform your doctor, as it can affect the clearance of this medicine from your body.
Acetylcysteine Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking acetylcysteine 600 mg with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Acetylcysteine Interaction with Food Product
Acetylcysteine does not interact with any food products, but alcohol should be avoided before and after taking the medicine, as it can increase or decrease the effect of this medicine.
Storage
- The medicine should be stored at cool temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep away from the reach of children
Acetylcysteine Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name-
N-acetylcysteine
Intake routine/cycle
📌 1- Daily Dose
Take acetylcysteine exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
📌 2- Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
📌 3- Overdose
Overdosing on acetylcysteine (above 100 mg/kg/hr) can cause nausea, vomiting, and metabolic issues, which may resolve in mild cases. Severe overdose can lead to hemolysis, kidney failure, jaundice, and brain swelling, potentially causing seizures or permanent damage. If someone taking this medicine experiences these symptoms, rush them to the hospital immediately.
FAQ’s
1. What is the other name of N-acetylcysteine?
➡️ Another name for n-acetylcysteine is N-acetylcysteine.
2. What is acetylcysteine used for?
➡️ Acetylcysteine is used to treat paracetamol overdose and respiratory diseases that produce mucus.
3. What is acetylcysteine 600 mg used for?
➡️ Acetylcysteine 600 mg is used to treat paracetamol overdose and respiratory diseases that cause mucus buildup.
Reference
- Ershad M, Naji A, Patel P, et al. N-Acetylcysteine. [Updated 2024 Feb 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from.
- Mayo Clinic. Acetylcysteine (oral route) [Internet]. Rochester (MN): Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2025 Mar 15]. Available from.
- DrugBank. Acetylcysteine [Internet]. Edmonton (AB): DrugBank Online; [cited 2025 Mar 15]. Available from.
