Acetylcysteine (inhalation)

Generic name: acetylcysteine (inhalation) [ a-SEET-il-SIS-teen ]
Dosage form: inhalation solution (10%; 20%)
Drug classes: Antidotes, Mucolytics

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Nov 29, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is acetylcysteine inhalation?

Acetylcysteine inhalation is used to thin the mucus in people with certain lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis, emphysema, bronchitis, pneumonia, or tuberculosis. Acetylcysteine inhalation is also used during surgery or anesthesia, and to prepare the throat or lungs for a medical test.

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

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

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

Tell your doctor if you have asthma.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I use acetylcysteine inhalation?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not use acetylcysteine inhalation at home if you do not fully understand all instructions that are specific to your use of acetylcysteine.

Acetylcysteine inhalation solution can be inhaled directly from the nebulizer or with a face mask, mouth piece, tent, or intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) machine.

Use only the inhaler device provided with your medicine or you may not get the correct dose.

Do not place this medicine directly into a heated nebulizer medicine chamber.

Do not mix your dose of acetylcysteine inhalation until you are ready to use the medicine. Diluted acetylcysteine inhalation must be used within 1 hour of mixing.

Acetylcysteine inhalation liquid may change color once you have opened the bottle. This is caused by a chemical reaction and will not affect the medicine.

You may sense an unusual or unpleasant smell while using acetylcysteine inhalation. This effect should become less noticeable the longer you use the medicine.

Clean your nebulizer right after each use. The residue from acetylcysteine inhalation can clog the parts of the nebulizer.

Store an unopened vial (bottle) of acetylcysteine inhalation at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

An opened acetylcysteine vial should be stored in a refrigerator, but you must use it within 96 hours (4 days) after opening. Do not allow the medicine to freeze.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using acetylcysteine inhalation?

Do not mix other medicines in a nebulizer with acetylcysteine inhalation, unless your doctor has told you to.

Acetylcysteine inhalation side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Acetylcysteine inhalation may cause serious side effects. Stop using acetylcysteine inhalation and call your doctor at once if you have:

• chest tightness;

• trouble breathing; or

• worsened breathing problems.

Common side effects of acetylcysteine may include:

• sticky feeling around the nebulizer mask;

• white patches or sores inside your mouth or on your lips;

• nausea, vomiting;

• fever, runny nose, sore throat;

• drowsiness; or

• cold and clammy skin.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect acetylcysteine inhalation?

Other drugs may affect acetylcysteine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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