ACETYLCYSTEINE - INHALATION/ORAL

ACETYLCYSTEINE - INHALATION/ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (a-SEET-il-SIS-teen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mucomyst

GENERIC NAME(S): acetylcysteine

Uses

USES: When inhaled by mouth, acetylcysteine is used to help thin and loosen mucus in the airways due to certain lung diseases (such as emphysema, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia). This effect helps you to clear the mucus from your lungs so that you can breathe easier. When taken by mouth, acetylcysteine is used to prevent liver damage from acetaminophen overdose.


How to use ACETYLCYSTEINE - INHALATION/ORAL

HOW TO USE: If you are using this medication to treat lung disease, inhale this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. A health care professional will show you the proper way to use this medication. Learn all preparation and usage instructions. You may notice a slight odor when you first breathe in the medication. This odor will quickly go away. If you are using a face mask to breathe in the medication, there may be some stickiness on your face after use. Wash your face with water to remove the stickiness. Do not mix acetylcysteine with other inhaled medications unless directed by the doctor or pharmacist. If you are taking this medication by mouth, take it as directed by your doctor. The solution is usually mixed with another liquid (such as cola) to decrease nausea and vomiting. Drink the medication within 1 hour of mixing. Tell your doctor if you vomit within 1 hour after taking your medication. You may need to take another dose. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. For acetaminophen overdose, the dosage is also be based on your weight. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea and vomiting may occur. Mouth sores and runny nose may also occur if you are inhaling this medication by mouth. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. If you are taking this medication by mouth, tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: severe stomach/abdominal pain, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. If you are inhaling this medication by mouth, seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: chest pain/tightness, trouble breathing. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using acetylcysteine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, stomach/intestinal ulcer. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also How to Use section. Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use. This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests (including urine ketone test), possibly causing false test results. Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for ACETYLCYSTEINE - INHALATION/ORAL

- Acetylcysteine is used to treat acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose and to thin and loosen mucus in the lungs and airways in conditions such as chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, and pneumonia.

- Acetylcysteine works by replenishing the levels of a substance called glutathione, which is important for detoxifying harmful substances in the body. It also helps to break down and thin mucus, making it easier to cough out.

- Acetylcysteine is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. However, it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication during pregnancy.

- The common side effects of acetylcysteine include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, and headache. In some rare cases, it may cause bronchospasm (wheezing) or an allergic reaction.

- Acetylcysteine may interact with certain medications like nitroglycerin, medications containing nitrites, and certain blood pressure medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking before starting acetylcysteine.

- Acetylcysteine can be administered through inhalation or orally. The inhalation form is typically delivered using a nebulizer, while the oral form is available in solution or effervescent tablet form.

- The onset of action of acetylcysteine varies depending on the condition being treated. In cases of acetaminophen overdose, it is usually started immediately to prevent liver damage. For respiratory conditions, it may take several days of regular use to see the desired effects.

- Acetylcysteine is available both as a prescription medication and as an over-the-counter supplement. However, the dosage strength and usage for specific conditions may require a prescription, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

- Acetylcysteine can be used in children, but the dosage and administration may differ based on their age and weight. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions and discuss any concerns with your child's healthcare provider.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.