N-acetylcysteine (NAC) injection is an FDA-approved antidote primarily used to prevent or reduce severe liver damage following an acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose. It works by restoring glutathione levels in the liver, which neutralizes toxic byproducts from the medication.
Primary Uses:
- Acetaminophen Toxicity: It is the standard emergency treatment for potentially hepatotoxic doses of acetaminophen. NAC is most effective when administered intravenously within 8 hours of ingestion.
- Mucolytic Therapy (Hospital Use): While often delivered via inhalation or orally, NAC injections or solutions can be used in hospital settings for patients with conditions involving abnormal, sticky mucus secretions (e.g., pneumonia, cystic fibrosis, and postoperative pulmonary complications).
