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ACETYLCYSTEINE (a se teel SIS teen) is a drug that loosens and thins mucus in the lungs. It is used to make breathing easier in patients with bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, emphysema, tuberculosis, or other lung problems.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
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This medicine is usually inhaled into the lungs using a nebulizer. In a hospital or clinic setting, a health care provider may put this medicine directly into the lungs through a trachea tube or give by mouth in an emergency. Follow the directions on the prescription label. For inhalation through a nebulizer, dilute with sterile saline or water as directed. You will be taught how to use your nebulizer. Use diluted medicine within 1 hour of mixing. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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Interactions are not expected.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if you get worse. If you are using a nebulizer at home, make sure you understand how to use it properly.
Drink water as directed. This will help to loosen and thin mucus.
Inhalations of this medicine can leave a sticky film in your mouth and on your face. Rinse with water after each treatment.
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•breathing problems
•chest tightness, pain
•clamminess
•coughing up blood
•fever
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•changes in taste
•drowsiness
•mouth sores
•nausea, vomiting
•runny nose
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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Keep out of the reach of children.
Store unopened bottles at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). If only some of a bottle is used, store the remaining undiluted medicine in a refrigerator. Use open bottles within 96 hours (4 days). Use diluted medicine within 1 hour. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
DISCLAIMER: This drug information content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physician with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment. Drug information is sourced from GSDD (Gold Standard Drug Database ) provided by Elsevier.
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