Acetylcysteine Solution, Usp

Acetylcysteine Solution, Usp
SPL v11
SPL
SPL Set ID f56b4087-db48-4fd7-84ec-9c927962b805
Route
RESPIRATORY (INHALATION)
Published
Effective Date 2024-12-17
Document Type 34391-3 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Drug Facts

Composition & Product

Active Ingredients
Acetylcysteine (100 mg)
Inactive Ingredients
Edetate Disodium Water

Identifiers & Packaging

Marketing Status
ANDA Active Since 1995-10-01 Until 2016-12-31

Description

Sterile Not For Injection

Indications and Usage

Acetylcysteine is indicated as adjuvant therapy for patients with abnormal, viscid, or inspissated mucous secretions in such conditions as: Chronic bronchopulmonary disease (chronic emphysema, emphysema with bronchitis, chronic asthmatic bronchitis, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis and primary amyloidosis of the lung) Acute bronchopulmonary disease (pneumonia, bronchitis, tracheobronchitis) Pulmonary complications of cystic fibrosis Tracheostomy care Pulmonary complications associated with surgery Use during anesthesia Post-traumatic chest conditions Atelectasis due to mucous obstruction Diagnostic bronchial studies (bronchograms, bronchospirometry, and bronchial wedge catheterization)

Contraindications

Acetylcysteine is contraindicated in those patients who are sensitive to it.

Adverse Reactions

Adverse effects have included stomatitis, nausea, vomiting, fever, rhinorrhea, drowsiness, clamminess, chest tightness, and bronchoconstriction. Clinically overt acetylcysteine induced bronchospasm occurs infrequently and unpredictably even in patients with asthmatic bronchitis or bronchitis complicating bronchial asthma. Acquired sensitization to acetylcysteine has been reported rarely. Reports of sensitization in patients have not been confirmed by patch testing. Sensitization has been confirmed in several inhalation therapists who reported a history of dermal eruptions after frequent and extended exposure to acetylcysteine. Reports of irritation to the tracheal and bronchial tracts have been received and although hemoptysis has occurred in patients receiving acetylcysteine such findings are not uncommon in patients with bronchopulmonary disease and a causal relationship has not been established.

Drug Interactions

Drug stability and safety of acetylcysteine when mixed with other drugs in a nebulizer have not been established.

How Supplied

Acetylcysteine is available in rubber stoppered glass vials containing 4, 10, or 30 mL. The 20% solution may be diluted to a lesser concentration with either Sodium Chloride for Injection, Sodium Chloride for Inhalation, Sterile Water for Injection, or Sterile Water for Inhalation. The 10% solution may be used undiluted. Acetylcysteine solution is sterile and can be used for inhalation (mucolytic agent) or oral administration (acetaminophen antidote). Acetylcysteine solution is not for parenteral injection.  It is available as: Acetylcysteine 20% solution (200 mg acetylcysteine per mL). Sterile, not for injection. NDC 0517-7604-25           Cartons of twenty-five 4 mL vials NDC 0517-7610-03           Cartons of three 10 mL vials, plastic dropper NDC 0517-7630-03           Cartons of three 30 mL vials Acetylcysteine 10% solution (100 mg acetylcysteine per mL). Sterile, not for injection. NDC 0517-7504-25           Cartons of twenty-five 4 mL vials NDC 0517-7510-03           Cartons of three 10 mL vials, plastic dropper


Medication Information

Indications and Usage

Acetylcysteine is indicated as adjuvant therapy for patients with abnormal, viscid, or inspissated mucous secretions in such conditions as:

Chronic bronchopulmonary disease (chronic emphysema, emphysema with bronchitis, chronic asthmatic bronchitis, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis and primary amyloidosis of the lung)

Acute bronchopulmonary disease (pneumonia, bronchitis, tracheobronchitis)

Pulmonary complications of cystic fibrosis

Tracheostomy care

Pulmonary complications associated with surgery

Use during anesthesia

Post-traumatic chest conditions

Atelectasis due to mucous obstruction

Diagnostic bronchial studies (bronchograms, bronchospirometry, and bronchial wedge catheterization)

Contraindications

Acetylcysteine is contraindicated in those patients who are sensitive to it.

Adverse Reactions

Adverse effects have included stomatitis, nausea, vomiting, fever, rhinorrhea, drowsiness, clamminess, chest tightness, and bronchoconstriction. Clinically overt acetylcysteine induced bronchospasm occurs infrequently and unpredictably even in patients with asthmatic bronchitis or bronchitis complicating bronchial asthma.

Acquired sensitization to acetylcysteine has been reported rarely. Reports of sensitization in patients have not been confirmed by patch testing. Sensitization has been confirmed in several inhalation therapists who reported a history of dermal eruptions after frequent and extended exposure to acetylcysteine.

Reports of irritation to the tracheal and bronchial tracts have been received and although hemoptysis has occurred in patients receiving acetylcysteine such findings are not uncommon in patients with bronchopulmonary disease and a causal relationship has not been established.

Drug Interactions

Drug stability and safety of acetylcysteine when mixed with other drugs in a nebulizer have not been established.

How Supplied

Acetylcysteine is available in rubber stoppered glass vials containing 4, 10, or 30 mL. The 20% solution may be diluted to a lesser concentration with either Sodium Chloride for Injection, Sodium Chloride for Inhalation, Sterile Water for Injection, or Sterile Water for Inhalation. The 10% solution may be used undiluted.

Acetylcysteine solution is sterile and can be used for inhalation (mucolytic agent) or oral administration (acetaminophen antidote). Acetylcysteine solution is not for parenteral injection.  It is available as:

Acetylcysteine 20% solution (200 mg acetylcysteine per mL). Sterile, not for injection.

NDC 0517-7604-25           Cartons of twenty-five 4 mL vials

NDC 0517-7610-03           Cartons of three 10 mL vials, plastic dropper

NDC 0517-7630-03           Cartons of three 30 mL vials

Acetylcysteine 10% solution (100 mg acetylcysteine per mL). Sterile, not for injection.

NDC 0517-7504-25           Cartons of twenty-five 4 mL vials

NDC 0517-7510-03           Cartons of three 10 mL vials, plastic dropper

Description

Acetylcysteine is for inhalation (mucolytic agent) or oral administration (acetaminophen antidote), available as a sterile, unpreserved solution (NOT FOR INJECTION). The solutions contain 20% (200 mg/mL) or 10% (100 mg/mL) acetylcysteine, with disodium edetate in water for injection. Sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid is added to adjust pH (range 6.0 - 7.5). Acetylcysteine is the N-acetyl derivative of the naturally-occurring amino acid, L-cysteine. The compound is a white crystalline powder with the molecular formula C5H9NO3S, a molecular weight of 163.2, and chemical name of N-acetyl-L-cysteine. Acetylcysteine has the following structural formula:

This product contains the following inactive ingredients:

disodium edetate, sodium hydroxide and water for injection.

Section 42229-5

Sterile

Not For Injection

General

With the administration of acetylcysteine, the patient may initially observe a slight disagreeable odor that is soon not noticeable. With a face mask there may be stickiness on the face after nebulization. This is easily removed by washing with water.

Under certain conditions, a color change may occur in the opened bottle of acetylcysteine. The light purple color is the result of a chemical reaction which does not significantly affect the safety or mucolytic effectiveness of acetylcysteine.

Continued nebulization of acetylcysteine solution with a dry gas will result in an increased concentration of the drug in the nebulizer because of evaporation of the solvent. Extreme concentration may impede nebulization and efficient delivery of the drug. Dilution of the nebulizing solution with appropriate amounts of Sterile Water for Injection, USP, as concentration occurs, will obviate this problem.

Storage

Store unopened vials at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) (see USP Controlled Room Temperature).

Acetylcysteine solution does not contain an antimicrobial agent, and care must be taken to minimize contamination of the sterile solution. Dilutions of acetylcysteine should be used freshly prepared and utilized within one hour. If only a portion of the solution in a vial is used, store the remaining undiluted portion in a refrigerator and use within 96 hours.  A change in color may occur after opening.  This does not change the efficacy of the drug.

Warnings

After proper administration of acetylcysteine, an increased volume of liquified bronchial secretions may occur. When cough is inadequate, the open airway must be maintained open by mechanical suction if necessary. When there is a mechanical block due to foreign body or local accumulation, the airway should be cleared by endotracheal aspiration, with or without bronchoscopy. Asthmatics under treatment with acetylcysteine should be watched carefully. Most patients with bronchospasm are quickly relieved by the use of a bronchodilator given by nebulization. If bronchospasm progresses, the medication should be discontinued immediately.

Apparatus

Acetylcysteine is usually administered as fine nebulae and the nebulizer used should be capable of providing optimal quantities of a suitable range of particle sizes.

Commercially available nebulizers will produce nebulae of acetylcysteine satisfactory for retention in the respiratory tract. Most of the nebulizers tested will supply a high proportion of the drug solution as particles of less than 10 microns in diameter. Mitchell2 has shown that particles less than 10 microns should be retained in the respiratory tract satisfactorily.

Various intermittent positive pressure breathing devices nebulized acetylcysteine with a satisfactory efficiency including: No. 40 De Vilbiss (The De Vilbiss Co., Somerset, Pennsylvania), and the Bennett Twin-Jet Nebulizer (Puritan Bennett Corp., Oak at 13th., Kansas City, Missouri).

The nebulized solution may be inhaled directly from the nebulizer. Nebulizers may also be attached to the plastic face masks or plastic mouthpieces. Suitable nebulizers may also be fitted for use with the various intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) machines. The nebulizing equipment should be cleaned immediately after use because the residues may clog the smaller orifices or corrode metal parts.

Hand bulbs are not recommended for routine use in nebulizing acetylcysteine because their output is generally too small. Also, some hand-operated nebulizers deliver particles that are larger than optimum for inhalation therapy.

Acetylcysteine should not be placed directly into the chamber of a heated (hot pot) nebulizer. A heated nebulizer may be part of the nebulization assembly to provide a warm saturated atmosphere if the acetylcysteine aerosol is introduced by means of a separate unheated nebulizer. Usual precautions for administration of warm saturated nebulae should be observed.

The nebulized solution may be breathed directly from the nebulizer. Nebulizers may also be attached to plastic face masks, plastic face tents, plastic mouth pieces, conventional plastic oxygen tents, or head tents. Suitable nebulizers may also be fitted for use with the various intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) machines.

The nebulizing equipment should be cleaned immediately after use, otherwise the residues may occlude the fine orifices or corrode metal parts.

Materials

Acetylcysteine may be administered using conventional nebulizers made of plastic or glass. Certain materials used in nebulization equipment react with acetylcysteine. The most reactive of these are certain metals (notably iron and copper) and rubber. Where materials may come into contact with acetylcysteine solution, parts made of the following acceptable materials should be used: glass, plastic, aluminum, anodized aluminum, chromed metal, tantalum, sterling silver, or stainless steel. Silver may become tarnished after exposure, but this is not harmful to the drug action or to the patient.

References
  • Bonanomi L, Gazzaniga A. Toxicological, pharmacokinetic and metabolic studies on acetylcysteine. Eur J Respir Dis, 1981; 61 (Suppl III): 45-51.
  • Am Rev Respir Dis, 1960; 82:627-639.

Rx Only

IN7504

Rev. 5/14

MG #11105

AMERICAN

REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Mutagenesis

Published data1 indicate that acetylcysteine is not mutagenic in the Ames test, both with and without metabolic activation.

Precautions

Occasionally severe and persistent vomiting occurs as a symptom of acute acetaminophen overdose. Treatment with oral acetylcysteine may aggravate the vomiting. Patients at risk of gastric hemorrhage (eg, esophageal varices, peptic ulcers, etc.) should be evaluated concerning the risk of upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage versus the risk of developing hepatic toxicity, and treatment with acetylcysteine given accordingly.

Dilution of the acetylcysteine (see Preparation of Acetylcysteine for Oral Administration) minimizes the propensity of oral acetylcysteine to aggravate vomiting.

Compatibility

The physical and chemical compatibility of acetylcysteine solutions with certain other drugs that might be concomitantly administered by nebulization, direct instillation, or topical application has been studied.

Acetylcysteine should not be mixed with certain antibiotics. For example, the antibiotics, tetracycline hydrochloride, oxytetracycline hydrochloride, and erythromycin lactobionate, were found to be incompatible when mixed in the same solution. These agents may be administered from separate solutions if administration of these agents is desirable.

The supplying of these data should not be interpreted as a recommendation for combining acetylcysteine with other drugs. The table is not presented as positive assurance that no incompatibility will be present, since these data are based only on short-term compatibility studies done in the Mead Johnson Research Center. Manufacturers may change their formulations, and this could alter compatibilities. These data are intended to serve only as a guide for predicting compounding problems.

If it is deemed advisable to prepare an admixture, it should be administered as soon as possible after preparation. Do not store unused mixtures.

IN VITRO COMPATIBILITY1 TESTS OF ACETYLCYSTEINE


1. The rating, Incompatible, is based on the formation of a precipitate, a change in clarity, immiscibility, or a rapid loss of potency of acetylcysteine or the active ingredient of the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT in the admixture.
 The rating, Compatible, means that there was no significant physical change in the admixture when compared with a control solution of the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT, and that there was no predicted chemical incompatibility. All of the admixtures have been tested for short-term chemical compatibility by assaying for the concentration of acetylcysteine after mixing.
2. The active ingredient in the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT was also assayed after mixing. Some of the admixtures developed minor physical changes which were considered to be insufficient to rate the admixture Incompatible. These are listed in footnotes 3, 4, and 5.

3. A strong odor developed after storage for 24 hours at room temperature.

4. The admixture was a slightly darker shade of yellow than a control solution of the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT.

5. A light tan color developed after storage for 24 hours at room temperature.

6. Entries are final concentrations. Values in parentheses relate volumes of acetylcysteine solutions to volume of test solutions.
     RATIO TESTED 6
 PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT  COMPATIBILITY  ACETYLCYSTEINE  PRODUCT
   RATING    OR AGENT
 ANESTHETIC, GAS      
 Halothane  Compatible  20%  Infinite
 Nitrous Oxide  Compatible  20%  Infinite
 ANESTHETIC, LOCAL      
 Cocaine HCl  Compatible  10%  5%
 Lidocaine HCl  Compatible  10%  2%
 Tetracaine HCl  Compatible  10%  1%
 ANTIBACTERIALS (A parenteral form of each antibiotic was used)      
 Bacitracin2,3 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  5,000 U/mL
 Chloramphenicol Sodium Succinate  Compatible  20%  20 mg/mL
 Carbenicillin Disodium2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  125 mg/mL
 Gentamicin Sulfate2  Compatible  10%  20 mg/mL
 Kanamycin Sulfate2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  167 mg/mL
   Compatible  17%  85 mg/mL
 Lincomycin HCl2  Compatible  10%  150 mg/mL
 Neomycin Sulfate2  Compatible  10%  100 mg/mL
 Novobiocin Sodium2  Compatible  10%  25 mg/mL
 Penicillin G Potassium2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  25,000 U/mL
   Compatible  10%  100,000 U/mL
 Polymyxin B Sulfate2  Compatible  10%  50,000 U/mL
 Cephalothin Sodium  Compatible  10%  110 mg/mL
 Colistimethate Sodium2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  37.5 mg/mL
 Vancomycin HCl2  Compatible  10%  25 mg/mL
 Amphotericin B  Incompatible  4% - 15%  1 - 4 mg/mL
 Chlortetracycline HCl2  Incompatible  10%  12.5 mg/mL
 Erythromycin Lactobionate  Incompatible  10%  15 mg/mL
 Oxytetracycline HCl  Incompatible  10%  12.5 mg/mL
 Ampicillin Sodium  Incompatible  10%  50 mg/mL
 Tetracycline HCl  Incompatible  10%  12.5 mg/mL
 BRONCHODILATORS      
 Isoproterenol HCl2  Compatible  3%  0.5%
 Isoproterenol HCl2  Compatible  10%  0.05%
 Isoproterenol HCl2  Compatible  20%  0.05%
 Isoproterenol HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  0.33% (1 part)
 Isoetharine HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  (1 part)
 Epinephrine HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  0.33% (1 part)
 CONTRAST MEDIA      
 Iodized Oil  Incompatible  20%/20 mL  40%/10 mL
 DECONGESTANTS      
 Phenylephrine HCl2  Compatible  3%  0.25%
 Phenylephrine HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  0.17% (1 part)
 ENZYMES      
 Chymotrypsin  Incompatible  5%  400 γ/mL
 Trypsin  Incompatible  5%  400 γ/mL
 SOLVENTS      
 Alcohol  Compatible  12%  10% - 20%
 Propylene Glycol  Compatible  3%  10%
 STEROIDS      
 Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate  Compatible  16%  0.8 mg/mL
 Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate5  Compatible  16.7%  3.3 mg/mL
 OTHER AGENTS      
 Hydrogen Peroxide  Incompatible  (All ratios)  
 Sodium Bicarbonate  Compatible  20% (1 part)  4.2% (1 part)
Carcinogenesis

Carcinogenicity studies in laboratory animals have not been performed with acetylcysteine alone, nor with acetylcysteine in combination with isoproterenol.

Long-term oral studies of acetylcysteine alone in rats (12 months of treatment followed by 6 months of observation) at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day (5.2 times the human mucolytic dose) provided no evidence of oncogenic activity.

Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when acetylcysteine is administered to a nursing woman.

Nebulizing Gases

Compressed tank gas (air) or an air compressor should be used to provide pressure for nebulizing the solution. Oxygen may also be used but should be used with the usual precautions in patients with severe respiratory disease and CO2 retention.

Direct Instillation

When used by direct instillation, 1 to 2 mL of a 10% to 20% solution may be given as often as every hour.

When used for the routine nursing care of patients with tracheostomy, 1 to 2 mL of a 10% to 20% solution may be given every 1 to 4 hours by instillation into the tracheostomy.

Acetylcysteine may be introduced directly into a particular segment of the bronchopulmonary tree by inserting (under local anesthesia and direct vision) a small plastic catheter into the trachea. Two to 5 mL of the 20% solution may then be instilled by means of a syringe connected to the catheter.

Acetylcysteine may also be given through a percutaneous intratracheal catheter. One to 2 mL of the 20% or 2 to 4 mL of the 10% solution every 1 to 4 hours may then be given by a syringe attached to the catheter.

Clinical Pharmacology

The viscosity of pulmonary mucous secretions depends on the concentrations of mucoprotein and, to a lesser extent, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The latter increases with increasing purulence owing to the presence of cellular debris. The mucolytic action of acetylcysteine is related to the sulfhydryl group in the molecule. This group probably ``opens′′ disulfide linkages in mucus thereby lowering the viscosity. The mucolytic activity of acetylcysteine is unaltered by the presence of DNA, and increases with increasing pH. Significant mucolysis occurs between pH 7 and 9.

Acetylcysteine undergoes rapid deacetylation in vivo to yield cysteine or oxidation to yield diacetylcystine.

Occasionally, patients exposed to the inhalation of an acetylcysteine aerosol respond with the development of increased airways obstruction of varying and unpredictable severity. Those patients who are reactors cannot be identified a priori from a random patient population. Even when patients are known to have reacted previously to the inhalation of an acetylcysteine aerosol, they may not react during a subsequent treatment. The converse is also true; patients who have had inhalation treatments of acetylcysteine without incident may still react to subsequent inhalation with increased airways obstruction. Most patients with bronchospasm are quickly relieved by the use of a bronchodilator given by nebulization. If bronchospasm progresses, the medication should be discontinued immediately.

Prolonged Nebulization

When three fourths of the initial volume of acetylcysteine solution has been nebulized, a quantity of Sterile Water for Injection, USP (approximately equal to the volume of solution remaining) should be added to the nebulizer. This obviates any concentration of the agent in the residual solvent remaining after prolonged nebulization.

Diagnostic Bronchograms

For diagnostic bronchial studies, two or three administrations of 1 to 2 mL of the 20% solution or 2 to 4 mL of the 10% solution should be given by nebulization or by instillation intratracheally, prior to the procedure.

Impairment of Fertility

A reproductive toxicity test to assess potential impairment of fertility was performed with acetylcysteine (10%) combined with isoproterenol (0.05%) and administered as an aerosol into a chamber of 12.43 cubic meters. The combination was administered for 25, 30, or 35 minutes twice a day for 68 days before mating, to 200 male and 150 female rats; no adverse effects were noted in dams or pups. Females after mating were continued on treatment for the next 42 days.

Reproductive toxicity studies of acetylcysteine in the rat given oral doses of acetylcysteine up to 1,000 mg/kg (5.2 times the human mucolytic dose) have also been reported in the literature.1 The only adverse effect observed was a slight non-dose-related reduction in fertility at dose levels of 500 or 1,000 mg/kg/day (2.6 or 5.2 times the human mucolytic dose) in the Segment I study.

Dosage Guide and Preparation

Doses in relation to body weight are:

Loading Dose of Acetylcysteine **
**If patient weighs less than 20 kg (usually patients younger than 6 years), calculate the dose of acetylcysteine. Each mL of 20% acetylcysteine solution contains 200 mg of acetylcysteine.  The loading dose is 140 mg per kilogram of body weight. The maintenance dose is 70 mg/kg. Three (3) mL of diluent are added to each mL of 20% acetylcysteine solution. Do not decrease the proportion of diluent.
      grams   mL of 20%   mL of   Total mL of
 Body Weight  Acetylcysteine  Acetylcysteine  Diluent  5% Solution
 (kg)  (lb)        
  100-109   220-240   15   75   225   300
 90-99  198-218  14  70  210  280
 80-89  176-196  13  65  195  260
 70-79  154-174  11  55  165  220
 60-69  132-152  10  50  150  200
 50-59  110-130  8  40  120  160
 40-49  88-108  7  35  105  140
 30-39  66-86  6  30  90  120
 20-29  44-64  4  20  60  80
  Maintenance Dose **
 (kg)  (lb)        
  100-109   220-240   7.5   37   113   150
 90-99  198-218  7  35  105  140
 80-89  176-196  6.5  33  97  130
 70-79  154-174  5.5  28  82  110
 60-69  132-152  5  25  75  100
 50-59  110-130  4  20  60  80
 40-49  88-108  3.5  18  52  70
 30-39  66-86  3  15  45  60
 20-29  44-64  2  10  30  40
Nebulization Tent, Croupette

In special circumstances it may be necessary to nebulize into a tent or Croupette, and this method of use must be individualized to take into account the available equipment and the patient's particular needs. This form of administration requires very large volumes of the solution, occasionally as much as 300 mL during a single treatment period.

If a tent or Croupette must be used, the recommended dose is the volume of acetylcysteine (using 10% or 20%) that will maintain a very heavy mist in the tent or Croupette for the desired period. Administration for intermittent or continuous prolonged periods, including overnight, may be desirable.

Acetaminophen Assay Methodology

Assay procedures most suitable for determining acetaminophen concentrations utilize high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas liquid chromatography (GLC). The assay should measure only parent acetaminophen and not conjugated. The assay procedures listed below fulfill this requirement:

Serialization Label 4 Ml (10%)
Serialization Label 4 Ml (20%)
Serialization Label 10 Ml (10%)
Serialization Label 10 Ml (20%)
Selected Techniques (non Inclusive)

HPLC:

  • Blair D, Rumack, BH, Clin Chem, 1977; 23(4):743-745.
  • Howie D, Andriaenssens Pl, Prescott LF. J. Pharm Pharmacol, 1977; 29(4):235-237. GLC
  • Prescott LF. J. Pharm Pharmacol, 1971; 23(10):807-808. Colorimetric
  • Glynn JP. Kendal SE, Lancet 1975; 1(May 17):1147-1148.
Estimating Potential for Hepatoxicity

The following nomogram has been developed to estimate the probability that plasma levels in relation to intervals post ingestion will result in hepatoxicity.

Plasma or Serum Acetaminophen Concentration v Time Post-acetaminophen Ingestion

Supportive Treatment of Acetaminophen Overdose
  • Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance based on clinical evaluation of state of hydration and serum electrolytes.
  • Treat as necessary for hypoglycemia.
  • Administer vitamin K1 if prothrombin time ratio exceeds 1.5 or fresh frozen plasma if the prothrombin time ratio exceeds 3.0.
  • Diuretics and forced diuresis should be avoided.
Nebulization Face Mask, Mouth Piece, Tracheostomy

When nebulized into a face mask, mouth piece, or tracheostomy, 1 to 10 mL of the 20% solution or 2 to 20 mL of the 10% solution may be given every 2 to 6 hours; the recommended dose for most patients is 3 to 5 mL of the 20% solution or 6 to 10 mL of the 10% solution 3 to 4 times a day.

Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B

In a teratology study of acetylcysteine in the rabbit, oral doses of 500 mg/kg/day (2.6 times the human mucolytic dose) were administered to pregnant does by intubation on days 6 through 16 of gestation. Acetylcysteine was found to be nonteratogenic under the conditions of the study.

In the rabbit, two groups (one of 14 and one of 16 pregnant females) were exposed to an aerosol of 10% acetylcysteine and 0.05% isoproterenol hydrochloride for 30 and 35 minutes twice a day from the 6th through the 18th day of pregnancy. No teratogenic effects were observed among the offspring.

Teratology and a perinatal or postnatal toxicity study in rats were performed with a combination of acetylcysteine and isoproterenol administered by the inhalation route. In the rat, two groups of 25 pregnant females each were exposed to the aerosol for 30 and 35 minutes, respectively, twice a day from the 6th through the 15th day of gestation. No teratogenic effects were observed among the offspring.

In the pregnant rat (30 rats per group), twice-daily exposure to an aerosol of acetylcysteine and isoproterenol for 30 or 35 minutes from the 15th day of gestation through the 21st day postpartum was without adverse effect on dams or newborns.

Reproduction studies of acetylcysteine with isoproterenol have been performed in rats and of acetylcysteine alone in rabbits at doses up to 2.6 times the human dose. These have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to acetylcysteine. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies may not always be predictive of human responses, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Acetaminophen Assays Interpretation and Methodology

The acute ingestion of acetaminophen in quantities of 150 mg/kg or greater may result in hepatic toxicity. However, the reported history of the quantity of a drug ingested as an overdose is often inaccurate and is not a reliable guide to therapy of the overdose. THEREFORE, PLASMA OR SERUM ACETAMINOPHEN CONCENTRATIONS, DETERMINED AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE, BUT NO SOONER THAN 4 HOURS FOLLOWING AN ACUTE OVERDOSE, ARE ESSENTIAL IN ASSESSING THE POTENTIAL RISK OF HEPATOTOXICITY. IF AN ASSAY FOR ACETAMINOPHEN CANNOT BE OBTAINED, IT IS NECESSARY TO ASSUME THAT THE OVERDOSE IS POTENTIALLY TOXIC.

INTERPRETATION OF ACETAMINOPHEN ASSAYS

  • When results of the plasma acetaminophen assay are available refer to the nomogram below to determine if plasma concentration is in the potentially toxic range. Values above the solid line connecting 200 mcg/mL at 4 hours with 50 mcg/mL at 12 hours are associated with a possibility of hepatic toxicity if an antidote is not administered. (Do not wait for assay results to begin acetylcysteine treatment.)
  • If the predetoxification plasma level is above the broken line continue with maintenance doses of acetylcysteine. It is better to err on the safe side and thus the broken line is placed 25% below the solid line which defines possible toxicity.
  • If the predetoxification plasma level is below the broken line described above, there is minimal risk of hepatic toxicity and acetylcysteine treatment can be discontinued.
Preparation of Acetylcysteine for Oral Administration

Oral administration requires dilution of the 20% solution with diet cola or other diet soft drinks, to a final concentration of 5% (see Dosage Guide and Preparation table). If administered via gastric tube or Miller-Abbott tube, water may be used as the diluent. The dilutions should be freshly prepared and utilized within one hour. Remaining undiluted solutions in opened vials can be stored in the refrigerator up to 96 hours.



ACETYLCYSTEINE IS NOT APPROVED FOR PARENTERAL INJECTION.

Principal Display Panel 4 Ml (10%) Container & Carton

NDC 0517-7504-01

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)

4 mL VIAL



Rx Only



For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral

Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)



NOT FOR INJECTION

PRESERVATIVE FREE



AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967





ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7504-25

25 x 4 mL VIALS

Rx Only

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION      PRESERVATIVE FREE.

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 100 mg (10%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening. This does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN

REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11

Principal Display Panel 4 Ml (20%) Container & Carton

NDC 0517-7604-01

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

4 mL VIAL



Rx Only



For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral

Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)



NOT FOR INJECTION

PRESERVATIVE FREE



AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967





ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7604-25

25 x 4 mL VIALS

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION            PRESERVATIVE FREE

Rx Only

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 200 mg (20%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening. This does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN

REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11

Principal Display Panel 10 Ml (10%) Container & Carton

NDC 0517-7510-03

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)



For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent)

or Oral Administration

(Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION

10 mL VIAL

PRESERVATIVE FREE

Rx Only

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY  11967

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7510-03

3 x 10 mL VIALS

Rx Only

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION        PRESERVATIVE FREE

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 100 mg (10%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).  CONTAINS ONE PLASTIC DROPPER FOR DISPENSING.

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS. Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F), excursions permitted to 15°-30° (59°-86°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening, this does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11

Prinicpal Display Panel 10 Ml (20%) Container & Carton

NDC 0517-7610-03

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent)

or Oral Administration

(Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION

10 mL VIAL

PRESERVATIVE FREE

Rx Only

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY,  NY  11967

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7610-03

3 x 10 mL VIALS




Rx Only

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION      PRESERVATIVE FREE

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 200 mg (20%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).  CONTAINS ONE PLASTIC DROPPER FOR DISPENSING.

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS. Store at 20° -25°C (68° -77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30° (59°-86°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2°-8°C (36°-46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening, this does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11


Structured Label Content

Section 42229-5 (42229-5)

Sterile

Not For Injection

General

With the administration of acetylcysteine, the patient may initially observe a slight disagreeable odor that is soon not noticeable. With a face mask there may be stickiness on the face after nebulization. This is easily removed by washing with water.

Under certain conditions, a color change may occur in the opened bottle of acetylcysteine. The light purple color is the result of a chemical reaction which does not significantly affect the safety or mucolytic effectiveness of acetylcysteine.

Continued nebulization of acetylcysteine solution with a dry gas will result in an increased concentration of the drug in the nebulizer because of evaporation of the solvent. Extreme concentration may impede nebulization and efficient delivery of the drug. Dilution of the nebulizing solution with appropriate amounts of Sterile Water for Injection, USP, as concentration occurs, will obviate this problem.

Storage (STORAGE)

Store unopened vials at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) (see USP Controlled Room Temperature).

Acetylcysteine solution does not contain an antimicrobial agent, and care must be taken to minimize contamination of the sterile solution. Dilutions of acetylcysteine should be used freshly prepared and utilized within one hour. If only a portion of the solution in a vial is used, store the remaining undiluted portion in a refrigerator and use within 96 hours.  A change in color may occur after opening.  This does not change the efficacy of the drug.

Warnings (WARNINGS)

After proper administration of acetylcysteine, an increased volume of liquified bronchial secretions may occur. When cough is inadequate, the open airway must be maintained open by mechanical suction if necessary. When there is a mechanical block due to foreign body or local accumulation, the airway should be cleared by endotracheal aspiration, with or without bronchoscopy. Asthmatics under treatment with acetylcysteine should be watched carefully. Most patients with bronchospasm are quickly relieved by the use of a bronchodilator given by nebulization. If bronchospasm progresses, the medication should be discontinued immediately.

Apparatus

Acetylcysteine is usually administered as fine nebulae and the nebulizer used should be capable of providing optimal quantities of a suitable range of particle sizes.

Commercially available nebulizers will produce nebulae of acetylcysteine satisfactory for retention in the respiratory tract. Most of the nebulizers tested will supply a high proportion of the drug solution as particles of less than 10 microns in diameter. Mitchell2 has shown that particles less than 10 microns should be retained in the respiratory tract satisfactorily.

Various intermittent positive pressure breathing devices nebulized acetylcysteine with a satisfactory efficiency including: No. 40 De Vilbiss (The De Vilbiss Co., Somerset, Pennsylvania), and the Bennett Twin-Jet Nebulizer (Puritan Bennett Corp., Oak at 13th., Kansas City, Missouri).

The nebulized solution may be inhaled directly from the nebulizer. Nebulizers may also be attached to the plastic face masks or plastic mouthpieces. Suitable nebulizers may also be fitted for use with the various intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) machines. The nebulizing equipment should be cleaned immediately after use because the residues may clog the smaller orifices or corrode metal parts.

Hand bulbs are not recommended for routine use in nebulizing acetylcysteine because their output is generally too small. Also, some hand-operated nebulizers deliver particles that are larger than optimum for inhalation therapy.

Acetylcysteine should not be placed directly into the chamber of a heated (hot pot) nebulizer. A heated nebulizer may be part of the nebulization assembly to provide a warm saturated atmosphere if the acetylcysteine aerosol is introduced by means of a separate unheated nebulizer. Usual precautions for administration of warm saturated nebulae should be observed.

The nebulized solution may be breathed directly from the nebulizer. Nebulizers may also be attached to plastic face masks, plastic face tents, plastic mouth pieces, conventional plastic oxygen tents, or head tents. Suitable nebulizers may also be fitted for use with the various intermittent positive pressure breathing (IPPB) machines.

The nebulizing equipment should be cleaned immediately after use, otherwise the residues may occlude the fine orifices or corrode metal parts.

Materials

Acetylcysteine may be administered using conventional nebulizers made of plastic or glass. Certain materials used in nebulization equipment react with acetylcysteine. The most reactive of these are certain metals (notably iron and copper) and rubber. Where materials may come into contact with acetylcysteine solution, parts made of the following acceptable materials should be used: glass, plastic, aluminum, anodized aluminum, chromed metal, tantalum, sterling silver, or stainless steel. Silver may become tarnished after exposure, but this is not harmful to the drug action or to the patient.

References (REFERENCES)
  • Bonanomi L, Gazzaniga A. Toxicological, pharmacokinetic and metabolic studies on acetylcysteine. Eur J Respir Dis, 1981; 61 (Suppl III): 45-51.
  • Am Rev Respir Dis, 1960; 82:627-639.

Rx Only

IN7504

Rev. 5/14

MG #11105

AMERICAN

REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Description (DESCRIPTION)

Acetylcysteine is for inhalation (mucolytic agent) or oral administration (acetaminophen antidote), available as a sterile, unpreserved solution (NOT FOR INJECTION). The solutions contain 20% (200 mg/mL) or 10% (100 mg/mL) acetylcysteine, with disodium edetate in water for injection. Sodium hydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid is added to adjust pH (range 6.0 - 7.5). Acetylcysteine is the N-acetyl derivative of the naturally-occurring amino acid, L-cysteine. The compound is a white crystalline powder with the molecular formula C5H9NO3S, a molecular weight of 163.2, and chemical name of N-acetyl-L-cysteine. Acetylcysteine has the following structural formula:

This product contains the following inactive ingredients:

disodium edetate, sodium hydroxide and water for injection.

Mutagenesis

Published data1 indicate that acetylcysteine is not mutagenic in the Ames test, both with and without metabolic activation.

Precautions (PRECAUTIONS)

Occasionally severe and persistent vomiting occurs as a symptom of acute acetaminophen overdose. Treatment with oral acetylcysteine may aggravate the vomiting. Patients at risk of gastric hemorrhage (eg, esophageal varices, peptic ulcers, etc.) should be evaluated concerning the risk of upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage versus the risk of developing hepatic toxicity, and treatment with acetylcysteine given accordingly.

Dilution of the acetylcysteine (see Preparation of Acetylcysteine for Oral Administration) minimizes the propensity of oral acetylcysteine to aggravate vomiting.

How Supplied (HOW SUPPLIED)

Acetylcysteine is available in rubber stoppered glass vials containing 4, 10, or 30 mL. The 20% solution may be diluted to a lesser concentration with either Sodium Chloride for Injection, Sodium Chloride for Inhalation, Sterile Water for Injection, or Sterile Water for Inhalation. The 10% solution may be used undiluted.

Acetylcysteine solution is sterile and can be used for inhalation (mucolytic agent) or oral administration (acetaminophen antidote). Acetylcysteine solution is not for parenteral injection.  It is available as:

Acetylcysteine 20% solution (200 mg acetylcysteine per mL). Sterile, not for injection.

NDC 0517-7604-25           Cartons of twenty-five 4 mL vials

NDC 0517-7610-03           Cartons of three 10 mL vials, plastic dropper

NDC 0517-7630-03           Cartons of three 30 mL vials

Acetylcysteine 10% solution (100 mg acetylcysteine per mL). Sterile, not for injection.

NDC 0517-7504-25           Cartons of twenty-five 4 mL vials

NDC 0517-7510-03           Cartons of three 10 mL vials, plastic dropper

Compatibility

The physical and chemical compatibility of acetylcysteine solutions with certain other drugs that might be concomitantly administered by nebulization, direct instillation, or topical application has been studied.

Acetylcysteine should not be mixed with certain antibiotics. For example, the antibiotics, tetracycline hydrochloride, oxytetracycline hydrochloride, and erythromycin lactobionate, were found to be incompatible when mixed in the same solution. These agents may be administered from separate solutions if administration of these agents is desirable.

The supplying of these data should not be interpreted as a recommendation for combining acetylcysteine with other drugs. The table is not presented as positive assurance that no incompatibility will be present, since these data are based only on short-term compatibility studies done in the Mead Johnson Research Center. Manufacturers may change their formulations, and this could alter compatibilities. These data are intended to serve only as a guide for predicting compounding problems.

If it is deemed advisable to prepare an admixture, it should be administered as soon as possible after preparation. Do not store unused mixtures.

IN VITRO COMPATIBILITY1 TESTS OF ACETYLCYSTEINE


1. The rating, Incompatible, is based on the formation of a precipitate, a change in clarity, immiscibility, or a rapid loss of potency of acetylcysteine or the active ingredient of the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT in the admixture.
 The rating, Compatible, means that there was no significant physical change in the admixture when compared with a control solution of the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT, and that there was no predicted chemical incompatibility. All of the admixtures have been tested for short-term chemical compatibility by assaying for the concentration of acetylcysteine after mixing.
2. The active ingredient in the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT was also assayed after mixing. Some of the admixtures developed minor physical changes which were considered to be insufficient to rate the admixture Incompatible. These are listed in footnotes 3, 4, and 5.

3. A strong odor developed after storage for 24 hours at room temperature.

4. The admixture was a slightly darker shade of yellow than a control solution of the PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT.

5. A light tan color developed after storage for 24 hours at room temperature.

6. Entries are final concentrations. Values in parentheses relate volumes of acetylcysteine solutions to volume of test solutions.
     RATIO TESTED 6
 PRODUCT AND/OR AGENT  COMPATIBILITY  ACETYLCYSTEINE  PRODUCT
   RATING    OR AGENT
 ANESTHETIC, GAS      
 Halothane  Compatible  20%  Infinite
 Nitrous Oxide  Compatible  20%  Infinite
 ANESTHETIC, LOCAL      
 Cocaine HCl  Compatible  10%  5%
 Lidocaine HCl  Compatible  10%  2%
 Tetracaine HCl  Compatible  10%  1%
 ANTIBACTERIALS (A parenteral form of each antibiotic was used)      
 Bacitracin2,3 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  5,000 U/mL
 Chloramphenicol Sodium Succinate  Compatible  20%  20 mg/mL
 Carbenicillin Disodium2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  125 mg/mL
 Gentamicin Sulfate2  Compatible  10%  20 mg/mL
 Kanamycin Sulfate2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  167 mg/mL
   Compatible  17%  85 mg/mL
 Lincomycin HCl2  Compatible  10%  150 mg/mL
 Neomycin Sulfate2  Compatible  10%  100 mg/mL
 Novobiocin Sodium2  Compatible  10%  25 mg/mL
 Penicillin G Potassium2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  25,000 U/mL
   Compatible  10%  100,000 U/mL
 Polymyxin B Sulfate2  Compatible  10%  50,000 U/mL
 Cephalothin Sodium  Compatible  10%  110 mg/mL
 Colistimethate Sodium2 (mix and use at once)  Compatible  10%  37.5 mg/mL
 Vancomycin HCl2  Compatible  10%  25 mg/mL
 Amphotericin B  Incompatible  4% - 15%  1 - 4 mg/mL
 Chlortetracycline HCl2  Incompatible  10%  12.5 mg/mL
 Erythromycin Lactobionate  Incompatible  10%  15 mg/mL
 Oxytetracycline HCl  Incompatible  10%  12.5 mg/mL
 Ampicillin Sodium  Incompatible  10%  50 mg/mL
 Tetracycline HCl  Incompatible  10%  12.5 mg/mL
 BRONCHODILATORS      
 Isoproterenol HCl2  Compatible  3%  0.5%
 Isoproterenol HCl2  Compatible  10%  0.05%
 Isoproterenol HCl2  Compatible  20%  0.05%
 Isoproterenol HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  0.33% (1 part)
 Isoetharine HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  (1 part)
 Epinephrine HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  0.33% (1 part)
 CONTRAST MEDIA      
 Iodized Oil  Incompatible  20%/20 mL  40%/10 mL
 DECONGESTANTS      
 Phenylephrine HCl2  Compatible  3%  0.25%
 Phenylephrine HCl  Compatible  13.3% (2 parts)  0.17% (1 part)
 ENZYMES      
 Chymotrypsin  Incompatible  5%  400 γ/mL
 Trypsin  Incompatible  5%  400 γ/mL
 SOLVENTS      
 Alcohol  Compatible  12%  10% - 20%
 Propylene Glycol  Compatible  3%  10%
 STEROIDS      
 Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate  Compatible  16%  0.8 mg/mL
 Prednisolone Sodium Phosphate5  Compatible  16.7%  3.3 mg/mL
 OTHER AGENTS      
 Hydrogen Peroxide  Incompatible  (All ratios)  
 Sodium Bicarbonate  Compatible  20% (1 part)  4.2% (1 part)
Carcinogenesis

Carcinogenicity studies in laboratory animals have not been performed with acetylcysteine alone, nor with acetylcysteine in combination with isoproterenol.

Long-term oral studies of acetylcysteine alone in rats (12 months of treatment followed by 6 months of observation) at doses up to 1,000 mg/kg/day (5.2 times the human mucolytic dose) provided no evidence of oncogenic activity.

Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when acetylcysteine is administered to a nursing woman.

Nebulizing Gases

Compressed tank gas (air) or an air compressor should be used to provide pressure for nebulizing the solution. Oxygen may also be used but should be used with the usual precautions in patients with severe respiratory disease and CO2 retention.

Adverse Reactions (ADVERSE REACTIONS)

Adverse effects have included stomatitis, nausea, vomiting, fever, rhinorrhea, drowsiness, clamminess, chest tightness, and bronchoconstriction. Clinically overt acetylcysteine induced bronchospasm occurs infrequently and unpredictably even in patients with asthmatic bronchitis or bronchitis complicating bronchial asthma.

Acquired sensitization to acetylcysteine has been reported rarely. Reports of sensitization in patients have not been confirmed by patch testing. Sensitization has been confirmed in several inhalation therapists who reported a history of dermal eruptions after frequent and extended exposure to acetylcysteine.

Reports of irritation to the tracheal and bronchial tracts have been received and although hemoptysis has occurred in patients receiving acetylcysteine such findings are not uncommon in patients with bronchopulmonary disease and a causal relationship has not been established.

Contraindications (CONTRAINDICATIONS)

Acetylcysteine is contraindicated in those patients who are sensitive to it.

Drug Interactions

Drug stability and safety of acetylcysteine when mixed with other drugs in a nebulizer have not been established.

Direct Instillation

When used by direct instillation, 1 to 2 mL of a 10% to 20% solution may be given as often as every hour.

When used for the routine nursing care of patients with tracheostomy, 1 to 2 mL of a 10% to 20% solution may be given every 1 to 4 hours by instillation into the tracheostomy.

Acetylcysteine may be introduced directly into a particular segment of the bronchopulmonary tree by inserting (under local anesthesia and direct vision) a small plastic catheter into the trachea. Two to 5 mL of the 20% solution may then be instilled by means of a syringe connected to the catheter.

Acetylcysteine may also be given through a percutaneous intratracheal catheter. One to 2 mL of the 20% or 2 to 4 mL of the 10% solution every 1 to 4 hours may then be given by a syringe attached to the catheter.

Clinical Pharmacology (CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY)

The viscosity of pulmonary mucous secretions depends on the concentrations of mucoprotein and, to a lesser extent, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). The latter increases with increasing purulence owing to the presence of cellular debris. The mucolytic action of acetylcysteine is related to the sulfhydryl group in the molecule. This group probably ``opens′′ disulfide linkages in mucus thereby lowering the viscosity. The mucolytic activity of acetylcysteine is unaltered by the presence of DNA, and increases with increasing pH. Significant mucolysis occurs between pH 7 and 9.

Acetylcysteine undergoes rapid deacetylation in vivo to yield cysteine or oxidation to yield diacetylcystine.

Occasionally, patients exposed to the inhalation of an acetylcysteine aerosol respond with the development of increased airways obstruction of varying and unpredictable severity. Those patients who are reactors cannot be identified a priori from a random patient population. Even when patients are known to have reacted previously to the inhalation of an acetylcysteine aerosol, they may not react during a subsequent treatment. The converse is also true; patients who have had inhalation treatments of acetylcysteine without incident may still react to subsequent inhalation with increased airways obstruction. Most patients with bronchospasm are quickly relieved by the use of a bronchodilator given by nebulization. If bronchospasm progresses, the medication should be discontinued immediately.

Indications and Usage (INDICATIONS AND USAGE)

Acetylcysteine is indicated as adjuvant therapy for patients with abnormal, viscid, or inspissated mucous secretions in such conditions as:

Chronic bronchopulmonary disease (chronic emphysema, emphysema with bronchitis, chronic asthmatic bronchitis, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis and primary amyloidosis of the lung)

Acute bronchopulmonary disease (pneumonia, bronchitis, tracheobronchitis)

Pulmonary complications of cystic fibrosis

Tracheostomy care

Pulmonary complications associated with surgery

Use during anesthesia

Post-traumatic chest conditions

Atelectasis due to mucous obstruction

Diagnostic bronchial studies (bronchograms, bronchospirometry, and bronchial wedge catheterization)

Prolonged Nebulization

When three fourths of the initial volume of acetylcysteine solution has been nebulized, a quantity of Sterile Water for Injection, USP (approximately equal to the volume of solution remaining) should be added to the nebulizer. This obviates any concentration of the agent in the residual solvent remaining after prolonged nebulization.

Diagnostic Bronchograms

For diagnostic bronchial studies, two or three administrations of 1 to 2 mL of the 20% solution or 2 to 4 mL of the 10% solution should be given by nebulization or by instillation intratracheally, prior to the procedure.

Impairment of Fertility

A reproductive toxicity test to assess potential impairment of fertility was performed with acetylcysteine (10%) combined with isoproterenol (0.05%) and administered as an aerosol into a chamber of 12.43 cubic meters. The combination was administered for 25, 30, or 35 minutes twice a day for 68 days before mating, to 200 male and 150 female rats; no adverse effects were noted in dams or pups. Females after mating were continued on treatment for the next 42 days.

Reproductive toxicity studies of acetylcysteine in the rat given oral doses of acetylcysteine up to 1,000 mg/kg (5.2 times the human mucolytic dose) have also been reported in the literature.1 The only adverse effect observed was a slight non-dose-related reduction in fertility at dose levels of 500 or 1,000 mg/kg/day (2.6 or 5.2 times the human mucolytic dose) in the Segment I study.

Dosage Guide and Preparation (DOSAGE GUIDE AND PREPARATION)

Doses in relation to body weight are:

Loading Dose of Acetylcysteine **
**If patient weighs less than 20 kg (usually patients younger than 6 years), calculate the dose of acetylcysteine. Each mL of 20% acetylcysteine solution contains 200 mg of acetylcysteine.  The loading dose is 140 mg per kilogram of body weight. The maintenance dose is 70 mg/kg. Three (3) mL of diluent are added to each mL of 20% acetylcysteine solution. Do not decrease the proportion of diluent.
      grams   mL of 20%   mL of   Total mL of
 Body Weight  Acetylcysteine  Acetylcysteine  Diluent  5% Solution
 (kg)  (lb)        
  100-109   220-240   15   75   225   300
 90-99  198-218  14  70  210  280
 80-89  176-196  13  65  195  260
 70-79  154-174  11  55  165  220
 60-69  132-152  10  50  150  200
 50-59  110-130  8  40  120  160
 40-49  88-108  7  35  105  140
 30-39  66-86  6  30  90  120
 20-29  44-64  4  20  60  80
  Maintenance Dose **
 (kg)  (lb)        
  100-109   220-240   7.5   37   113   150
 90-99  198-218  7  35  105  140
 80-89  176-196  6.5  33  97  130
 70-79  154-174  5.5  28  82  110
 60-69  132-152  5  25  75  100
 50-59  110-130  4  20  60  80
 40-49  88-108  3.5  18  52  70
 30-39  66-86  3  15  45  60
 20-29  44-64  2  10  30  40
Nebulization Tent, Croupette (Nebulization tent, Croupette)

In special circumstances it may be necessary to nebulize into a tent or Croupette, and this method of use must be individualized to take into account the available equipment and the patient's particular needs. This form of administration requires very large volumes of the solution, occasionally as much as 300 mL during a single treatment period.

If a tent or Croupette must be used, the recommended dose is the volume of acetylcysteine (using 10% or 20%) that will maintain a very heavy mist in the tent or Croupette for the desired period. Administration for intermittent or continuous prolonged periods, including overnight, may be desirable.

Acetaminophen Assay Methodology (ACETAMINOPHEN ASSAY METHODOLOGY)

Assay procedures most suitable for determining acetaminophen concentrations utilize high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas liquid chromatography (GLC). The assay should measure only parent acetaminophen and not conjugated. The assay procedures listed below fulfill this requirement:

Serialization Label 4 Ml (10%) (Serialization Label - 4 mL (10%))
Serialization Label 4 Ml (20%) (Serialization Label - 4 mL (20%))
Serialization Label 10 Ml (10%) (Serialization Label - 10 mL (10%))
Serialization Label 10 Ml (20%) (Serialization Label - 10 mL (20%))
Selected Techniques (non Inclusive) (SELECTED TECHNIQUES (non inclusive))

HPLC:

  • Blair D, Rumack, BH, Clin Chem, 1977; 23(4):743-745.
  • Howie D, Andriaenssens Pl, Prescott LF. J. Pharm Pharmacol, 1977; 29(4):235-237. GLC
  • Prescott LF. J. Pharm Pharmacol, 1971; 23(10):807-808. Colorimetric
  • Glynn JP. Kendal SE, Lancet 1975; 1(May 17):1147-1148.
Estimating Potential for Hepatoxicity

The following nomogram has been developed to estimate the probability that plasma levels in relation to intervals post ingestion will result in hepatoxicity.

Plasma or Serum Acetaminophen Concentration v Time Post-acetaminophen Ingestion

Supportive Treatment of Acetaminophen Overdose
  • Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance based on clinical evaluation of state of hydration and serum electrolytes.
  • Treat as necessary for hypoglycemia.
  • Administer vitamin K1 if prothrombin time ratio exceeds 1.5 or fresh frozen plasma if the prothrombin time ratio exceeds 3.0.
  • Diuretics and forced diuresis should be avoided.
Nebulization Face Mask, Mouth Piece, Tracheostomy (Nebulization-face mask, mouth piece, tracheostomy)

When nebulized into a face mask, mouth piece, or tracheostomy, 1 to 10 mL of the 20% solution or 2 to 20 mL of the 10% solution may be given every 2 to 6 hours; the recommended dose for most patients is 3 to 5 mL of the 20% solution or 6 to 10 mL of the 10% solution 3 to 4 times a day.

Pregnancy: Teratogenic Effects: Pregnancy Category B

In a teratology study of acetylcysteine in the rabbit, oral doses of 500 mg/kg/day (2.6 times the human mucolytic dose) were administered to pregnant does by intubation on days 6 through 16 of gestation. Acetylcysteine was found to be nonteratogenic under the conditions of the study.

In the rabbit, two groups (one of 14 and one of 16 pregnant females) were exposed to an aerosol of 10% acetylcysteine and 0.05% isoproterenol hydrochloride for 30 and 35 minutes twice a day from the 6th through the 18th day of pregnancy. No teratogenic effects were observed among the offspring.

Teratology and a perinatal or postnatal toxicity study in rats were performed with a combination of acetylcysteine and isoproterenol administered by the inhalation route. In the rat, two groups of 25 pregnant females each were exposed to the aerosol for 30 and 35 minutes, respectively, twice a day from the 6th through the 15th day of gestation. No teratogenic effects were observed among the offspring.

In the pregnant rat (30 rats per group), twice-daily exposure to an aerosol of acetylcysteine and isoproterenol for 30 or 35 minutes from the 15th day of gestation through the 21st day postpartum was without adverse effect on dams or newborns.

Reproduction studies of acetylcysteine with isoproterenol have been performed in rats and of acetylcysteine alone in rabbits at doses up to 2.6 times the human dose. These have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to acetylcysteine. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies may not always be predictive of human responses, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

Acetaminophen Assays Interpretation and Methodology (ACETAMINOPHEN ASSAYS - INTERPRETATION AND METHODOLOGY)

The acute ingestion of acetaminophen in quantities of 150 mg/kg or greater may result in hepatic toxicity. However, the reported history of the quantity of a drug ingested as an overdose is often inaccurate and is not a reliable guide to therapy of the overdose. THEREFORE, PLASMA OR SERUM ACETAMINOPHEN CONCENTRATIONS, DETERMINED AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE, BUT NO SOONER THAN 4 HOURS FOLLOWING AN ACUTE OVERDOSE, ARE ESSENTIAL IN ASSESSING THE POTENTIAL RISK OF HEPATOTOXICITY. IF AN ASSAY FOR ACETAMINOPHEN CANNOT BE OBTAINED, IT IS NECESSARY TO ASSUME THAT THE OVERDOSE IS POTENTIALLY TOXIC.

INTERPRETATION OF ACETAMINOPHEN ASSAYS

  • When results of the plasma acetaminophen assay are available refer to the nomogram below to determine if plasma concentration is in the potentially toxic range. Values above the solid line connecting 200 mcg/mL at 4 hours with 50 mcg/mL at 12 hours are associated with a possibility of hepatic toxicity if an antidote is not administered. (Do not wait for assay results to begin acetylcysteine treatment.)
  • If the predetoxification plasma level is above the broken line continue with maintenance doses of acetylcysteine. It is better to err on the safe side and thus the broken line is placed 25% below the solid line which defines possible toxicity.
  • If the predetoxification plasma level is below the broken line described above, there is minimal risk of hepatic toxicity and acetylcysteine treatment can be discontinued.
Preparation of Acetylcysteine for Oral Administration

Oral administration requires dilution of the 20% solution with diet cola or other diet soft drinks, to a final concentration of 5% (see Dosage Guide and Preparation table). If administered via gastric tube or Miller-Abbott tube, water may be used as the diluent. The dilutions should be freshly prepared and utilized within one hour. Remaining undiluted solutions in opened vials can be stored in the refrigerator up to 96 hours.



ACETYLCYSTEINE IS NOT APPROVED FOR PARENTERAL INJECTION.

Principal Display Panel 4 Ml (10%) Container & Carton (PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mL (10%) Container & Carton)

NDC 0517-7504-01

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)

4 mL VIAL



Rx Only



For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral

Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)



NOT FOR INJECTION

PRESERVATIVE FREE



AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967





ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7504-25

25 x 4 mL VIALS

Rx Only

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION      PRESERVATIVE FREE.

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 100 mg (10%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening. This does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN

REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11

Principal Display Panel 4 Ml (20%) Container & Carton (PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 4 mL (20%) Container & Carton)

NDC 0517-7604-01

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

4 mL VIAL



Rx Only



For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral

Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)



NOT FOR INJECTION

PRESERVATIVE FREE



AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967





ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7604-25

25 x 4 mL VIALS

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION            PRESERVATIVE FREE

Rx Only

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 200 mg (20%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS.

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening. This does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN

REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11

Principal Display Panel 10 Ml (10%) Container & Carton (PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 10 mL (10%) Container & Carton)

NDC 0517-7510-03

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)



For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent)

or Oral Administration

(Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION

10 mL VIAL

PRESERVATIVE FREE

Rx Only

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY  11967

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

10% (100 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7510-03

3 x 10 mL VIALS

Rx Only

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION        PRESERVATIVE FREE

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 100 mg (10%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).  CONTAINS ONE PLASTIC DROPPER FOR DISPENSING.

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS. Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F), excursions permitted to 15°-30° (59°-86°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening, this does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11

Prinicpal Display Panel 10 Ml (20%) Container & Carton (PRINICPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 10 mL (20%) Container & Carton)

NDC 0517-7610-03

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent)

or Oral Administration

(Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION

10 mL VIAL

PRESERVATIVE FREE

Rx Only

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY,  NY  11967

ACETYLCYSTEINE

SOLUTION, USP

20% (200 mg/mL)

NDC 0517-7610-03

3 x 10 mL VIALS




Rx Only

For Inhalation (Mucolytic Agent) or Oral Administration (Acetaminophen Antidote)

NOT FOR INJECTION      PRESERVATIVE FREE

Each mL contains: Acetylcysteine 200 mg (20%), Edetate Disodium 0.025%, Water for Injection q.s. pH adjusted with Sodium Hydroxide and, if necessary, Hydrochloric Acid is added. pH (range 6.0 to 7.5).  CONTAINS ONE PLASTIC DROPPER FOR DISPENSING.

WARNING: DISCARD OPENED CONTAINER AFTER 96 HOURS. Store at 20° -25°C (68° -77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30° (59°-86°F) (See USP Controlled Room Temperature).

STORE IN REFRIGERATOR 2°-8°C (36°-46°F) AFTER OPENING. A change in color may occur after opening, this does not change the efficacy of the drug. Acetylcysteine may be diluted to a lesser concentration with an appropriate solution.

Directions for Use: See Package Insert.

AMERICAN REGENT, INC.

SHIRLEY, NY 11967

Rev. 11/11


Advanced Ingredient Data


Raw Label Data

All Sections (JSON)