Acetylcysteine Nebulizer Solution

What is this medication?

ACETYLCYSTEINE (a se teel SIS teen) treats conditions that cause thick mucus in your lungs. It works by thinning and loosening mucus, making it easier to clear from the lungs.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Mucomyst, Mucosil Acetylcysteine

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

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

• Asthma
• Lung blockage
• Stomach ulcer or varices
• An unusual or allergic reaction to acetylcysteine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for inhalation using a nebulizer. Nebulizers make a liquid into an aerosol that you breathe in through your mouth or your mouth and nose and into your lungs. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Do not use it more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication 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.

What if I miss a dose?

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.

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 care team 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 medication can leave a sticky film in your mouth and on your face. Rinse with water after each treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Wheezing or trouble breathing that is worse after use

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Cold or clammy skin
• Drowsiness
• Fever
• Irritation in the throat
• Nausea
• Pain, redness, or swelling with sores inside the mouth or throat
• Vomiting

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?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

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 medication in a refrigerator. Use open bottles within 96 hours (4 days). Use diluted medication within 1 hour. Throw away any unused medication 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.