Acetylcysteine

Dosage Forms Available

• Acetylcysteine is available for use via the oral route (solution (liquid) and concentrated solution).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children above two years of age.

Contraindications

• The medication is not recommended in patients with a known allergy to Acetylcysteine and severe liver and kidney conditions.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Acetylcysteine may interact with antibiotics such as tetracycline, penicillin, gentamicin, amikacin, and neomycin. It can also interact with chest pain medications like glyceryl trinitrate and cough suppressants such as dextromethorphan and codeine.

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of this medication may cause symptoms like nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting. If you observe these symptoms, inform your doctor and follow the advice accordingly.
• If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But avoid repeating the dose.

Management of Side Effects

• Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication will not impair your ability to drive and operate heavy machinery. 

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Exercise caution while using this medicine in pregnancy and lactation.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Inform your doctor before taking Acetylcysteine if you have a history of stomach ulcers or asthma.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Avoid dairy products like milk, as they may increase mucus production. To relieve cough, limit processed and refined foods, such as baked goods, fried foods, white bread, white pasta, french fries, sugary desserts, and chips. Instead, opt for green leafy vegetables.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to prevent a dry throat. Avoid citrus fruits, as they may worsen the cough, and choose fruits with high water content, such as pears, watermelon, peaches, and pineapples.