NAC

NAC is used to help stop or reduce liver damage caused by taking large amounts of acetaminophen (Tylenol).

There are other brands and types of acetylcysteine available, and some can be bought without a prescription. Not all forms of NAC work effectively as an acetaminophen antidote. Do not try to treat an acetaminophen overdose without getting medical advice.

NAC may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not take NAC at home if you do not understand all instructions.

If you are in an emergency medical setting: Before you take NAC, your caregivers will perform a blood test to measure the level of acetaminophen in your body. This test is most effective when performed within 4 to 8 hours after an acetaminophen overdose. If you cannot remember when you last took acetaminophen or how much you took, you will most likely be given the first dose of acetylcysteine right away.

Your doctor will determine how long to treat you with NAC. Do not stop taking NAC until your doctor tells you to.

If you vomit within 1 hour after taking NAC, you may need to take another dose.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

In an emergency, you might not be able to inform caregivers about your health conditions. Ensure that any doctor looking after you later is aware that you received NAC.

You should not use NAC if you are allergic to it.

If possible, before you receive NAC, tell your caregivers if you have ever had:

• a stomach ulcer;
• stomach bleeding or bleeding in your esophagus (esophageal varices);
• high blood pressure, or if you are on a low-salt diet;
• congestive heart failure; or
• kidney disease.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you received this medicine.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

NAC may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor right away if you have:

• severe or ongoing vomiting;
• coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; or
• signs that the medicine may not be working--upper stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Common side effects of NAC may include:

• nausea, vomiting, upset stomach;
• rash; or
• fever.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

• Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Other drugs may affect NAC, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.