Inhaled acetylcysteine is a medicine to thin mucus in several conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, bronchitis, emphysema, pneumonia, or tuberculosis (TB). This medicine should only be used based on a doctor’s recommendation.
Inhaled acetylcysteine works directly on the lungs. This drug works faster when compared to oral acetylcysteine. When inhaled, inhaled acetylcysteine can thin mucus and stimulate coughing. That way, accumulated mucus can come out immediately and breathing becomes easier.
Unlike oral acetylcysteine, this drug cannot be used to treat paracetamol poisoning.
Inhaled acetylcysteine trademarks: Acetylcysteine, Fluimucil, N-Acetylcysteine, N-Cetyn
What Is Inhaled Acetylcysteine
| Group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Mucolytic drugs (phlegm thinners) |
| Benefit | Thinning phlegm |
| Used by | Mature |
| Inhaled acetylcysteine for pregnant and lactating women | Category B: Animal studies have not demonstrated fetal risk, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women.If you are pregnant, you should still consult your doctor regarding the use of this drug.It is not known whether inhaled acetylcysteine passes into breast milk. If you are breast-feeding, do not use this medication without consulting your doctor. |
| Drug form | Inhalation fluid |
Warnings Before Using Acetylcysteine Inhalation
There are several things to consider before using inhaled acetylcysteine, namely:
- 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 asthma, a stomach ulcer, or a duodenal ulcer. Also tell your doctor if any of these conditions make it difficult for you to cough up or cough up phlegm.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, supplements, or herbal products, to prevent drug interactions.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, 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.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Inhaled Acetylcysteine
The following are the doses of inhaled acetylcysteine to thin phlegm in adults:
- As a 10% inhalation solution: 6–10 ml given 3–4 times daily. If necessary, the dose may be increased to 2–20 ml every 2–6 hours.
- As a 20% inhalation solution: 3–5 ml given 3–4 times daily. If necessary, the dose may be increased to 1–10 ml every 2–6 hours.
How to Use Inhaled Acetylcysteine Correctly
Always follow your doctor’s advice and read the instructions on the medication packaging before using inhaled acetylcysteine.
Use inhaled acetylcysteine with a nebulizer. Make sure the device is clean. Add the recommended dosage of the medicine into the nebulizer container or cup. Connect the suction mouthpiece or mask to the nebulizer cup, then attach the connecting hose to the compressor and nebulizer cup.
When the device is ready, turn on the compressor. Place the mask over your mouth and inhale the medicine slowly with deep breaths for 10–15 minutes, or until the medicine in the nebulizer cup runs out. The effects of inhaled acetylcysteine can be felt after 5–10 minutes.
Do not mix acetylcysteine inhalation liquid internally with other medications, unless directed by your doctor.
Store opened acetylcysteine inhalation liquid in the refrigerator. Do not use this medication more than 96 hours (4 days) after opening.
Store unopened acetylcysteine inhalation liquid at room temperature, dry, and away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication out of the reach of children.
Interactions of Inhaled Acetylcyteine with Other Drugs
Using inhaled acetylcysteine together with antitussive drugs, such as codeine or dextromethorphan, can increase the risk of phlegm buildup which can block the respiratory tract.
To be safe, always tell your doctor what medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. The goal is to avoid unwanted interaction effects.
Side Effects and Dangers of Inhaled Acetylcysteine
Possible side effects after using inhaled acetylcysteine are:
- Nauseous
- Vomit
- Runny nose or stuffy nose
- Canker sores or white patches in the mouth or lips
- Disruption of the sense of taste
- Drowsiness
- A cold sweat
- The area around the nebulizer mask feels sticky.
Consult a doctor if the side effects do not improve or get worse. See a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to the drug or more serious side effects, such as:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath, or wheezing
- Coughing up blood
- The symptoms experienced worsened
Reference
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