Acetylcysteine
Uses of Acetylcysteine
Acetylcysteine is commonly used as a Mucolytic. It is used to loosen the Mucus In The Airways, treat Paracetamol Toxicity and Respiratory Disease With Excessive Mucus.
How Acetylcysteine Works
Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic that breaks down the bonds between the mucoproteins particle, reducing the mucus viscosity in the airways.
Side Effects of Acetylcysteine
Allergic reaction (e.g: rash, wheezing, dyspnea), Fluid overload (due to hyponatremia and seizure), Acute flushing, Oral bleed, Runny nose, Eye discomfort, Nausea and Vomiting, Hypo/hypertension symptoms, Liver function disturbances
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
This medicine should only be used with doctor's advice as this medication contain sodium that can worsen pre-existing kidney disease.
Alcohol Not Advisable
There is no academic reports that confirmed that Acetylcysteine is safe to use with alcohol. However, alcohol affects the efficiency of the liver function. Liver is the organ that metabolises Acetylcysteine. Thus, metabolization of Acetylcysteine might be affected. Please consult doctor for more details.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
Acetylcysteine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may be acceptable despite the risk. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
Acetylcysteine is not advisable to be taken before driving due to potential side effects such as myopia and headache.
Liver Use With Care
Acetylcysteine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. It is because Acetylcysteine is metabolised in the liver and there is liver function disturbances stated as the side effects of Acetylcysteine. Dose adjustment of Acetylcysteine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Limited Data
There is no academic reports that described the effects of Acetylcysteine during lactation. However, the molecular weight of Acetylcysteine is low for its excretion into the breastmilk. Furthermore, IV Acetylcysteine has been administered directly to preterm neonates due to certain indication, at doses that are much higher than the amount of Acetylcysteines obtained from the milk, without causing any toxicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
