Acetylcysteine

Generic name: acetylcysteine (oral) [ a-SEET-il-SIS-teen ]
Brand names: NAC, N-A-C Sustain
Dosage forms: oral capsule (500 mg; 600 mg); oral tablet (600 mg)
Drug classes:Antidotes, Mucolytics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 24, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is acetylcysteine?

Acetylcysteine is used to help prevent or lessen liver damage caused by taking large quantities of acetaminophen (Tylenol).

There are other brands and forms of acetylcysteine available, and some can be purchased over the counter. Not all forms of acetylcysteine are effective as an acetaminophen antidote. Do not attempt to treat an acetaminophen overdose without medical advice.

Acetylcysteine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers about your health conditions. Make sure any doctor caring for you afterward knows you received this medicine.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use acetylcysteine if you are allergic to it.

If possible before you receive acetylcysteine, tell your caregivers if you have ever had:

• a stomach ulcer;

• stomach bleeding or bleeding in your esophagus (esophageal varices);

• high blood pressure, or if you are on a low-salt diet;

• congestive heart failure; or

• kidney disease.

Ask a doctor before using acetylcysteine if you are pregnant or breastfeedin...