ACETYLCYSTEINE (brand name: Fluimucil) also known as N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a modified amino acid and belongs to a group of medicines known as mucolytic. It is a precursor of glutathione (GSH) and acts fast to break down and excrete mucus.it is used to clean the respiratory tract. Fluimucil is used as an antidote to the overdose of paracetamol (paracetamol) to prevent liver damage.
Uses of Acetylcysteine
- It is used to reduce exacerbations of COPD.
- It is used to treat thick mucus in people with cystic fibrosis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
- It may be effective in limiting nephrotoxicity due to radiographic contrast agents.
- It is used in certain lung diseases (such as pneumonia, emphysema, cystic fibrosis, bronchitis).
- Sometime it is used as a dietary supplement.
- It is also used in bronchiectasis.
- Pulmonary complications related to surgery.
- Use during anesthesia
- Cystic Fibrosis
Fluimucil mechanism of action
The mucolytic effect of acetylcysteine (Fluimicil) is linked to the sulfhydryl group in the molecule. This group is likely to open disulphide bonds in the mucosa, reducing viscosity.
Acetylcysteine (Fluimucil) Restores hepatic glutathione levels by producing the glutathione precursor L-cysteine. Glutathione must inactivate an intermediate metabolite (N-acetyl-p-benzoquinoneimine) of paracetamol, which is believed to be hepatotoxic. In the case of acetaminophen overdose, excessive levels of this metabolite are formed because the primary metabolic pathways (glucuronide and sulfate conjugation) are saturated.
Side effects
Common side effects are
- Nausea,
- Vomit,
- Heavy breathing
- Low potassium content
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Pain in the joints and
- Diarrhea or constipation
Include rare side effects
- Rashes,
- Fever
- A headache,
- Drowsiness;
- Runny nose
- Low blood pressure
- Oppression in the chest
- Swelling in the mouth and
- Liver problems
Precautions
Stop using Fluimucil and contact your doctor if
- If you are allergic to acetylcysteine or any other similar medicine.
- Asthma and asthmatic condition.
- Duodenal ulcers
- Phenylketonuria.
Interactions with drugs
Before using Fluimucil, tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the prescription and herbal products that you can use.
- Fluimucil should be avoided in combination with cefuroxime (an antibiotic). As the combination of acetylcysteine with this drug increases the concentration of cefuroxime.
- Also avoid Fluimucil with other medicines for the treatment of cough.
- The intake of N-acetylcysteine seems to increase the effect of nitroglycerin.
- Activated charcoal can bind these drugs in the stomach and prevent the body from absorbing them. Co-administration of N-acetylcysteine with activated charcoal may reduce the effectiveness of poisoning prevention.
Fluimucil in pregnancy
Acetylcysteine (Fluimucil) is a Pregnancy category B from the FDA. It is not expected that acetylcysteine will harm the unborn child. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known if acetylcysteine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a breastfeeding baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Dosage of Fluimucil
- Usual dose for adults and children over 14 years:An effervescent tablet Fluimucil (200 mg), 2-3 times a day.
- Usual dose for children from 7 to 14 years:An effervescent tablet of fluimucil (200 mg), 1-2 times a day.
- The treatment should take 5 to 10 days.
Direction For Use:
Dissolve an effervescent tablet in a glass of water, stir if necessary and drink.
Note:
The information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact your doctor.