Acetylcysteine

Acetylcysteine ​​or acetylcysteine ​​is a drug used to thin mucus in several conditions, such as asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, or cystic fibrosis. In addition, this drug is also used to treat paracetamol poisoning.

Acetylcysteine ​​works by breaking down proteins in phlegm so that the phlegm becomes thinner and easier to expel when coughing. In addition, acetylcysteine ​​also has antioxidant properties that can protect the liver from damage during paracetamol poisoning.

In addition to the oral form of medication, acetylcysteine ​​to thin phlegm is also available in the form of inhalation fluid. Inhaled acetylcysteine ​​works directly to the respiratory tract and lungs, so its effects can be felt more quickly.

Acetylcysteine Trade Mark: Acetylcysteine Etercon, Acetylcysteine Dexa, Acetylcysteine Novell, Acetin, Acetylcysteine MBF, Alstein, Ahep, Fluimucil, L-Acys, Memucil, Nalitik, Nytex, Pectocil, Resfar

What Is Acetylcysteine

Warnings before Using Acetylcysteine

Acetylcysteine ​​should be used as prescribed by your doctor. Here are some things you need to pay attention to before using acetylcysteine:

• Do not use acetylcysteine ​​if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
• Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, asthma, stomach ulcers, peptic ulcers, esophageal varices, high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, or are on a low-salt diet.
• Tell your doctor if you are taking antitussive medications, such as dextromethorphan, codeine, or noscapine. Also tell your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products, to prevent drug interactions.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug or serious side effects after using acetylcysteine.

Acetylcysteine ​​Dosage and Usage Rules

The doctor will give a dose and determine the duration of acetylcysteine ​​treatment according to the patient’s condition and age. Here is the division of acetylcysteine ​​doses based on the form of the drug:

Forms of effervescent tablets, capsules, dry syrup and granules

Purpose: To relieve phlegmy cough

Adults and children aged >6 years:

• Capsules, dry syrup, or granules: 200 mg 2–3 times daily.
• Effervescent tablets: 600 mg once daily.

Children 2–6 years: 100 mg, 2–4 times daily.

Purpose: To treat paracetamol poisoning.

Mature:

• Effervescent tablets : Initial dose 140 mg/kgBW, then continued with 70 mg/kgBW, every 4 hours, 17 times.

Infusion form

Acetylcysteine ​​infusion is used to treat paracetamol poisoning. The dosage will be determined by the doctor based on the patient’s weight and condition. Acetylcysteine ​​infusion can only be given in a hospital by a doctor or medical staff under the supervision of a doctor.

How to Use Acetylcysteine ​​Correctly 

To treat paracetamol poisoning, administration of oral or intravenous acetylcysteine ​​must be given in a hospital and under the supervision of a doctor. This is because paracetamol poisoning sufferers need to be closely monitored periodically.

To treat phlegmy cough, acetylcysteine ​​can be used independently. Follow the doctor’s advice and the rules for using the drug listed on the packaging label. Do not increase or decrease the dose without the doctor’s permission.

Acetylcysteine ​​should be taken with food or after meals. Take acetylcysteine ​​tablets or capsules with water. For acetylcysteine ​​granules, dissolve 1 sachet of acetylcysteine ​​granules in water according to the dosage recommended on the label. Stir the solution until evenly mixed before drinking.

For acetylcysteine ​​effervescent tablets, dissolve them in a glass of water before taking them. This medication should be taken within 2 hours of dissolving.

For acetylcysteine ​​dry syrup, fill the dry syrup bottle with water according to the instructions on the label. Always shake the bottle until the medicine is well mixed before taking acetylcysteine ​​dry syrup.

Try to take acetylcysteine ​​at the same time every day for maximum therapeutic effect. If you forget to take acetylcysteine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, ignore the missed dose and do not double the next dose.

Store acetylcysteine ​​in a closed container at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Keep the medication out of reach of children.

Acetylcysteine ​​Interactions with Other Drugs

There are several drug interaction effects that can occur if acetylcysteine ​​is used with other drugs, including:

• Increased risk of sputum buildup if used with antitussive drugs, such as codeine.
• Decreased effect of acetylcysteine ​​when used together with activated charcoal
• Increased risk of bleeding and low blood pressure if used with nitroglycerin.

Side Effects and Dangers of Acetylcysteine

Possible side effects that may arise after using acetylcysteine ​​are:

• Nauseous
• Vomiting
• Gastric pains
• Fever
• Skin rash

See a doctor if the above side effects do not subside or get worse. See a doctor immediately if an allergic reaction to the drug or more serious side effects appear, such as:

• Coughing up blood or vomiting coffee grounds-like material
• Chest tightness or pain, difficulty breathing, or wheezing
• Continuous and increasingly severe vomiting

Longevity.
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