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Acetylcysteine Sandoz is used in the treatment of paracetamol poisoning. The active substance is acetylcysteine, a derivative of the amino acid cysteine, used as an antidote. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, it increases the concentration of reduced glutathione, a peptide that protects cells from damage by toxins. The effectiveness of the detoxification procedure depends on the time between paracetamol overdose and initiation of intravenous acetylcysteine administration. Acetylcysteine in other forms is used as a mucolytic drug to help clear the airways
Sandoz acetylcysteine - reasons for administration
Paracetamol is one of the most common medicines in the home medicine cabinet. Used correctly, it is an effective and safe pain reliever and antipyretic drug. If the recommended dose is exceeded, paracetamol becomes a strong poison. If an overdose is suspected, the patient should be given N-acetylcysteine - a specific antidote. Symptoms of paracetamol poisoning they may appear several dozen hours after taking the drug. These include: diarrhea, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, excessive sweating, pain in the right hypochondrium, jaundice, and enlarged liver. These symptoms may occur 2-4 days after overdose. Then, 4–6 days after overdose, overt symptoms of hepatic failure develop. In very severe poisoning, it may result in death.
Acetylcysteine Sandoz – use
The preparation is in the form of a solution for intravenous infusion. It is intended for intravenous use after appropriate dilution and preparation. The preparation may only be administered by qualified medical personnel. Treatment is carried out in a hospital setting. It should be started as soon as possible after paracetamol poisoning (no later than 14 hours). adults: on the first day after intoxication, the daily dose is usually 300 mg / kg body weight (about 20 g per day). children: The doctor will decide the dose depending on the child’s weight. In general, children receive the same dose based on body weight as adults.
Sandoz acetylcysteine - precautions
Use and monitor with extreme caution in patients with bronchial asthma, with bronchial hyperreactivity and respiratory failure. Acetylocysteinaespecially at the beginning of use, it may liquefy bronchial secretions and increase its volume. In patients with reduced expectoration capacity, appropriate measures (e.g. drainage and suction) should be administered. Use with caution in patients with gastric or duodenal ulcer disease (active or a history of), or with esophageal varices. Side effects are more likely to occur if the drug is given too quickly or in a high dose.