N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a mucolytic agent that breaks disulfide bonds in respiratory mucus, making it thinner and easier to clear from the airways. Additionally, it serves as a critical antidote for acetaminophen toxicity by replenishing hepatic glutathione stores, allowing the liver to safely metabolize toxic drug byproducts.
Dosage by Body Weight
For respiratory mucolysis in adults, standard oral dosing is typically 200 mg to 600 mg daily in divided doses. For acetaminophen overdose, a specialized weight-based intravenous or oral protocol must be initiated immediately in an emergency setting. Pediatric dosing must be carefully managed by a healthcare provider.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended for routine use
- Frequency
- Under strict clinical supervision only
- Tracking Notes
- Emergency paracetamol toxicity protocols require specialized weight-based intravenous calculations.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 50 mg
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Must be prescribed by a physician. Monitor closely for bronchospasms.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 100 mg
- Frequency
- 1 to 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Commonly administered as a diluted oral solution or dissolved effervescent tablet.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 100 mg
- Frequency
- 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure adequate fluid intake to assist the mucolytic action.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 100 mg to 200 mg
- Frequency
- 2 times daily
- Tracking Notes
- Do not exceed recommended pediatric daily maximums.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended for routine use | Under strict clinical supervision only | Emergency paracetamol toxicity protocols require specialized weight-based intravenous calculations. |
| 5-7 kg | 50 mg | 1 to 2 times daily | Must be prescribed by a physician. Monitor closely for bronchospasms. |
| 8-10 kg | 100 mg | 1 to 2 times daily | Commonly administered as a diluted oral solution or dissolved effervescent tablet. |
| 11-15 kg | 100 mg | 2 times daily | Ensure adequate fluid intake to assist the mucolytic action. |
| 16-20 kg | 100 mg to 200 mg | 2 times daily | Do not exceed recommended pediatric daily maximums. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used as a mucolytic agent to reduce the viscosity of pulmonary secretions in respiratory disorders, and as an antidote for acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose to prevent liver damage.
Generic Name
AcetylcysteineBranded Drug Names
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.