Acetylcysteine

Acetylcysteine: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

Acetylcysteine reduces bronchial secretion viscosity, keeps liver glutathione levels stable, and exhibits modest anti-collagenase activity.

Uses of Acetylcysteine 

• Decreases the severity of liver damage in cases of paracetamol intoxication and other liver toxicity caused by oxidative damage or a reduction in glutathione production.
• Has a mucolytic effect in respiratory disease.
• Although there is little in vivo research to support it, acetylcysteine may be helpful in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) (dry eye) or in “melting” corneal ulcers.

Dose of Acetylcysteine in Dogs and Cats

Dogs, Cats:
• Acetylcysteine Dose for Dogs & Cats as Mucolytic: Either instil 1-2 ml of a 20% solution directly into the trachea or nebulize 50 mg as a 2% (dilute with saline) solution over the course of 30–60 minutes.
• Acetylcysteine Dose in paracetamol poisoning: 140–280 mg/kg by slow intravenous infusion over 15–20 minutes, diluted to a 5% solution using 5% dextrose. Then, give additional slow infusions of 70 mg/kg (likewise diluted) every 6 hours for at least 7 doses, depending on the amount of paracetamol consumed.
• KCS: 1 drop of the ophthalmic solution topically to the eye q6–8h. Rarely used now for this indication.

Side Effects of Acetylcysteine in Dogs and Cats

•  Hypersensitivity and bronchospasm when used in the pulmonary tree (use with care
  in bronchospastic respiratory disease, e.g. feline asthma).
•  It may cause GI effects (nausea, vomiting) and, rarely, urticaria when give orally.

Contraindications of Acetylcysteine in Dogs and Cats

No information available

Some Notes:

Acetylcysteine may used in treatment of a melting corneal ulcers: 1 drop of the ophthalmic solution q1–4h in the affected eye for 24–48 hours. Topical autologous serum is more effective for the treatment of a melting corneal ulcer and is preferred.