Acetylcysteine for Dogs, Cats, and Horses: Dosage, Uses, and Side Effects Guide
Overview
Acetylcysteine reduces bronchial secretion viscosity, keeps liver glutathione levels stable, and exhibits modest anti-collagenase activity.
Uses of Acetylcysteineย
- Pulmonary: Hypersensitivity reactions such as bronchospasm, especially in animals with asthma or bronchitis.
- Gastrointestinal (GI): Nausea, vomiting, or urticaria (rare).
- Intravenous Use: May cause changes in blood pressure (hypo/hypertension) or hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., flushing or rash).
- Horses: Intrauterine use can reduce inflammation without adverse effects on fertility.
Dose of Acetylcysteine in Dogs, Cats, and Horses
Below are specific doses of acetylcysteine for various conditions:
Species | Condition Treated with Acetylcysteine | Dosage |
---|---|---|
Dogs & Cats | Mucolytic | Instill 1โ2 ml of 20% solution into the trachea or nebulize 50 mg as a 2% solution for 30โ60 minutes. |
Paracetamol poisoning (Initial Dose) | 140 mg/kg via slow IV over 15โ20 minutes, diluted to 5% with dextrose. | |
Paracetamol poisoning (Follow-up) | 70 mg/kg IV every 6 hours for at least 7 doses. | |
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) | 1 drop of ophthalmic solution in the affected eye every 6โ8 hours. | |
Horses | Guttural Pouch Treatment | Instill a 20% solution directly into the pouch to dissolve chondroids. |
Neonatal Foals | Enema containing 8 g of acetylcysteine in sodium bicarbonate to treat refractory meconium impactions. |
Drug Dosage Calculator
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Side Effects of Acetylcysteine in Dogs and Cats
- Pulmonary: Hypersensitivity reactions such as bronchospasm, especially in animals with asthma or bronchitis.
- Gastrointestinal (GI): Nausea, vomiting, or urticaria (rare).
- Intravenous Use: May cause changes in blood pressure (hypo/hypertension) or hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., flushing or rash).
- Horses: Intrauterine use can reduce inflammation without adverse effects on fertility.
Contraindications of Acetylcysteine in Dogs and Cats
- Hypersensitivity to acetylcysteine.
- Use with caution in animals with bronchospastic diseases, such as feline asthma.
- No contraindications reported when used as an antidote for toxicity.
Some Notes:
- Dilution and Administration:
- IV administration requires dilution to 5% and a 0.2-micron in-line filter.
- Nebulization may leave a sticky residue on the faceโrinse as needed.
- Drug Interactions:
- Activated Charcoal: Reduces the effectiveness of oral acetylcysteine.
- Nitroglycerin: When administered together, it may enhance hypotensive effects.
- Monitoring and Reproductive Safety:
- Track electrolytes and liver enzymes during long-term use.
- While acetylcysteine crosses the placenta, no teratogenic effects have been noted in studies. Use with caution during pregnancy and lactation.
- Overdose Management:
- Oral doses above 1 g/kg are generally safe but may cause GI upset. For severe cases, consult poison control.
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