Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)
Acetylcysteine Information

Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic that is usually given by inhalation. Acetylcysteine works by thinning or liquefying mucus so it can be coughed out.

Acetylcysteine Indications

Acetylcysteine is specially formulated to treat certain lung conditions, like difficulty in breathing as caused by an increased amount of mucus.

Acetylcysteine Warnings/Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions below before using Acetylcysteine:
Asthma
Decreased ability to cough
Inform your doctor if you have had allergic reactions to Acetylcysteine, or if you have any allergy to any type of food, preservatives, dyes, or other substances.

Also inform your doctor if you have had allergic reactions to Acetylcysteine or to any type of food, beverage, dye, preservatives, or other substances.

Acetylcysteine belongs to a class of drugs known as FDA Pregnancy Category B. This entails that Acetylcysteine is not likely to cause harm to an unborn child. Nonetheless, should you be pregnant or planning to be, have a talk with your doctor first before taking Acetylcysteine .

It is also not certain if Acetylcysteine passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding moms are therefore suggested to see their doctor prior to deciding to use Acetylcysteine.

Acetylcysteine Intake Instructions

Acetylcysteine must be taken as directed by your doctor. If there is any instruction that appears unclear to you, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
Usual dosage is 3-5 mL of a 20 solution or 6-10 mL of a 10 solution that is used with a nebulizer for 3 to 4 times a day.Acetylcysteine Inhalation is done through the use of a face mask, mouthpiece, or tracheostomy.

The Acetylcysteine solution can be used as a heavy mist in a tent or croupette as well. At some cases, Acetylcysteine can be placed directly into the trachea or through a catheter.

Acetylcysteine Missed Dose

Unless directed by your doctor, Acetylcysteine must not be double dosed. If you happen to miss a dose of Acetylcysteine, take it as soon as you remember as long as it is not almost time for the next scheduled dose. Otherwise, skip missed dose and proceed with the next.

Acetylcysteine Overdose

If symptoms of over dosage of Acetylcysteine are suspected, seek proper medical attention.
Acetylcysteine Side Effects

Inform your doctor if you are experiencing any of the adverse effects listed below while taking Acetylcysteine:
Wheezing
Tightness in chest
Difficulty in breathing (especially in asthma patients)
Skin rash or other irritations
Clammy skin
Fever
Increase in amount of mucus in the lungs
Irritation or soreness of mouth, throat, or lungs
Nausea or vomiting
Runny nose
For other symptoms not mentioned that are particularly causing discomfort, tell your doctor immediately.

Acetylcysteine Drug Interactions

Have a talk with your doctor before deciding to take other prescribed or over-the-counter medicines while under treatment with Acetylcysteine.