Acetylcysteine

Acetylcysteine is given as a tablet form and can be taken with or without food. The tablets are to be taken twice daily in the morning and evening. The exact dosage and frequency of dose will be decided by the doctor on the basis of age and weight of the patient.

Yes, there are chances that Acetylcysteine may cause anemia. It has been observed that Acetylcysteine can cause a dose-related decrease in hemoglobin in the blood which could lead to anemia. Regular hemoglobin check is advised while taking Acetylcysteine and consult your prescribing doctor for his advice. If the patients develop anemia then in some cases blood transfusion is done to correct it.

Acetylcysteine can be given to a pregnant woman if the benefit of this medicine is more than the risk involved. Evidence shows it can be used in pregnant females without any gross risk to the fetus in the womb. Consult your doctor before starting the medication.

The duration of treatment with Acetylcysteine will be decided by the doctor. It will depend on the type of disease for which it has been prescribed. For respiratory conditions, it can be taken for 5 days and can be further extended to 2 weeks depending upon the condition of the patient.

Medicines like Acetylcysteine are not recommended to be used in children under 2 years of age. This is because the medicine works by dissolving the mucus which can cause a block in the breathing airway, and children below 2 years of age may not be able to clear it or cough it out properly. Still, in certain conditions it can be prescribed by your doctor, hence, follow the instructions as provided. Consult the doctor for any query.

No, you should not start taking cough syrups without consulting your doctor. The cough syrups which suppress the cough should be avoided with this medication as it would interfere with the action of the medicine. Consult your doctor who will suggest an effective cough syrup that can increase the expectoration or sputum.