What is Acetylcysteine? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Acetylcysteine

• Inhalation routeAsk your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.

• Store unopened vials of this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. After opening, you may store the vial in the refrigerator for 4 days.

• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

• Inhalation routeYou will use this medicine with an inhaler device called a nebulizer. The nebulizer turns the medicine into a fine mist that you breathe in through your mouth and to your lungs. Your caregiver will show you how to use your nebulizer.

• Inhalation routeThis medicine is sometimes given through a face mask. It also may be given inside a plastic tent that is placed around your head. The medicine is put into the air of the tent for breathing.

• This medicine may have a bad smell at first. The odor should go away soon after you start your treatment.

• The medicine in an opened vial might turn from clear to a light purple color. This is normal and does not change how the medicine works.

• Clean the nebulizing equipment immediately after use.

• This medicine may have a bad smell at first. The odor should go away soon after you start your treatment.

• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

• Store unopened vials of this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light. Do not freeze. After opening, you may store the vial in the refrigerator for 4 days.

• The medicine in an opened vial might turn from clear to a light purple color. This is normal and does not change how the medicine works.

• Inhalation routeYou will use this medicine with an inhaler device called a nebulizer. The nebulizer turns the medicine into a fine mist that you breathe in through your mouth and to your lungs. Your caregiver will show you how to use your nebulizer.

• Inhalation routeAsk your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.

• Inhalation routeThis medicine is sometimes given through a face mask. It also may be given inside a plastic tent that is placed around your head. The medicine is put into the air of the tent for breathing.

• Clean the nebulizing equipment immediately after use.

What to do if you miss a dose of Acetylcysteine

Acetylcysteine contraindications - Who shouldn't take Acetylcysteine?

• This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to acetylcysteine.

Acetylcysteine warnings

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you have asthma, or it is hard for you to cough.

• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Acetylcysteine interactions & what to avoid when taking Acetylcysteine

• Some medicines can affect how acetylcysteine works. Tell your doctor if you are taking an antibiotic. Do not mix other medicines in the nebulizer with acetylcysteine, unless your doctor tells you to.

• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.