What is Acetylcysteine and what does it do?
Acetylcysteine is a derivative of the sulfur amino acid cysteine, widely used for its mucolytic, antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties. Its main action lies in its ability to liquefy bronchial secretions, facilitating their evacuation in the event of pulmonary congestion.
It is often prescribed for the treatment of respiratory ailments, notably chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It is also indicated in the treatment of paracetamol intoxication, where it plays an essential protective role for the liver by preventing liver toxicity.
Its use in medicine is not limited to respiratory and liver pathologies. Research has demonstrated its effectiveness in protecting against oxidative stress, making it a promising candidate for neuroprotection and the reduction of chronic inflammation.
How Acetylcysteine works in the body
Acetylcysteine acts primarily as a mucolytic agent, reducing the viscosity of bronchial mucus thanks to its ability to break the disulfide bridges of mucoproteins. This action facilitates the elimination of stagnant secretions, making breathing easier and reducing the frequency of pulmonary infections.
It also plays a major role as a precursor of glutathione, a powerful endogenous antioxidant essential for cellular detoxification. By promoting glutathione synthesis,acetylcysteine helps neutralize free radicals, thus limiting the oxidative damage responsible for many chronic diseases.
In cases ofparacetamol intoxication,acetylcysteine helps restore hepatic glutathione levels, enabling the elimination of toxic metabolites and preventingacute liver failure.
What are the main benefits of Acetylcysteine?
Acetylcysteine has a number of therapeutic benefits that make it a must-have in medicine.
It is used for its mucolytic effect, facilitating expectoration of thick bronchial secretions. This property is particularly useful in patients suffering from chronic bronchitis, COPD and cystic fibrosis.
It plays a crucial role in liver protection, reducing the toxic effects of paracetamol overdoses, thus limiting the risk of hepatic necrosis.
Its antioxidant action makes it an agent of choice in the prevention of oxidative stress and its complications, notably in cellular aging, neurodegenerative diseases and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Some studies suggest a beneficial effect in the psychiatric field, notably in schizophrenia, bipolar disorders and resistant depression, whereacetylcysteine may modulate glutamate levels, thus influencing neuronal circuits.
How to use Acetylcysteine and in what forms
Acetylcysteine is available in various galenic forms, adapted to its various medical indications. It is marketed as effervescent powder sachets, effervescent tablets, drinkable solutions and hospital injectable forms.
Dosage varies according to therapeutic indication. For respiratory conditions, the standard dose is 200 mg three times a day, or 600 mg in a single dose. For the treatment of paracetamol intoxication, the dose is administered intravenously according to a specific protocol.
Treatment must be carried out in accordance with the recommendations of a healthcare professional, to ensure optimum efficacy and avoid undesirable drug interactions.
What are the possible side effects?
Acetylcysteine is generally well tolerated, but some side effects may occur.
Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, are the most frequently reported. Allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or itching, may occur in some patients.
In asthmatic patients,acetylcysteine may cause bronchospasm, necessitating immediate discontinuation of treatment. Other effects, such as headaches and transient hypotension, are occasionally reported.
In the event of significant or unusual side effects, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
What are the contraindications to Acetylcysteine?
Acetylcysteine is contraindicated in cases ofknown allergy to this substance or to one of the drug's excipients.
It is not recommended for patients with active gastric ulcers, due to its potential irritant effect on the digestive mucosa. People with a history of severe bronchospasm should also avoid its use.
The use ofacetylcysteine in pregnant or breast-feeding women should be discussed with a physician, although no teratogenic effects have been formally established.
Does Acetylcysteine interact with other drugs?
Acetylcysteine may interact with certain drugs, and precautions should be taken.
Combination with cough suppressants is not recommended, as it can lead to excessive accumulation of bronchial secretions, increasing the risk of respiratory complications.
It can also interfere with certain antibiotics, such as penicillins and cephalosporins, requiring a delay of at least two hours between taking the two drugs.
Combination with nitroglycerin, used in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, can cause severe hypotension and headaches.
Before takingacetylcysteine, it is essential to inform a healthcare professional of any current medication.
