Acetylcysteine solution for injection

What is this medication?

ACETYLCYSTEINE (a se teel SIS teen) is used after an acetaminophen overdose to prevent liver damage.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Acetadote

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• stomach ulcer or varices
• an unusual or allergic reaction to acetylcysteine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is usually given by injection into the veins in a hospital or clinic setting. In some situations, a health care provider may also put this medicine directly through a stomach tube or by mouth in an emergency.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Although this medicine may be used in an emergency even in very young children and infants, precautions may apply.

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.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. Your doses will be given to you in the hospital or clinic. It is very important to take all scheduled doses as directed until the treatment is complete.

What may interact with this medication?

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.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve or if you get worse. You will be carefully monitored during your treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

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
• fever
• low blood pressure
• rapid heartbeat

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 or smell
• drowsiness
• flushing of the face
• nausea, vomiting
• runny nose
• sore throat

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.

Where should I keep my medication?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

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.