Questions and Answers
What are the trade names for acetylcysteine?
What is the classification of acetylcysteine?
Antidote for acetaminophen overdose; mucolytic
What actions does acetylcysteine perform?
Restores hepatic glutathione or inactivates the toxic metabolite of acetaminophen, preventing hepatic damage.
What is the indication for using acetylcysteine?
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The dosage for acetaminophen toxicity is ______ mg/kg IV over 60 minutes.
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What should be done regarding the infusion of acetylcysteine?
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What are the contraindications for acetylcysteine?
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What precautions should be taken when administering acetylcysteine?
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What are some important notes about acetylcysteine?
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Study Notes
Acetylcysteine Trade Names
- Commonly known as Mucomyst and Pravolex.
Classification
- Functions as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose and acts as a mucolytic agent.
Therapeutic Actions
- Serves as an antidote primarily for acetaminophen toxicity; the exact mechanism remains unspecified.
- Believed to restore hepatic glutathione levels and deactivate harmful acetaminophen metabolites, thereby minimizing liver damage.
Indications
- Utilized specifically for acetaminophen toxicity as an antidote.
Dosage Information
- For acetaminophen toxicity:
- Initial dose: 150 mg/kg IV over 60 minutes (max 15 g).
- First maintenance dose: 50 mg/kg IV over 4 hours (max 5 g).
- Second maintenance dose: 100 mg/kg IV over 16 hours (max 10 g).
Administration Notes
- Infusion rates should be adjusted based on acetaminophen blood levels to ensure effectiveness.
Contraindications
- Not suitable for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to acetylcysteine.
- Administering the initial loading dose slowly over 60 minutes may help reduce hypersensitivity reactions.
Precautions
- Use with caution in elderly or weakened patients, particularly those with severe respiratory conditions.
- Caution is advised for patients with asthma or a history of bronchospasm, as it may worsen respiratory symptoms.
Additional Information
- Effective if administered within 8 hours of acetaminophen ingestion.
- Requires refrigeration for storage.
- Characterized by an unpleasant odor and will discolor after opening without losing effectiveness.
- Oral dosages exist and can still be absorbed if activated charcoal is also given.
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Description
This quiz covers the essential information about Acetylcysteine, including its trade names, therapeutic actions, dosage for acetaminophen toxicity, and contraindications. Test your understanding of this important antidote and mucolytic agent used in medical treatments.
