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Acetylcysteine

Mucomyst, ACC

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Sourced from primary literature. Awaiting credentialed clinical reviewer — our editorial process.

Drug Class

Respiratory

Routes

POIVNebulization

Indications

Acetaminophen toxicity (antidote)MucolyticRespiratory mucus clearance

Mechanism of Action

Breaks disulfide bonds in mucus glycoproteins reducing viscosity (mucolytic). Also a glutathione precursor providing hepatoprotection (acetaminophen antidote).

Side effects & warnings

Dual role: mucolytic (nebulized/oral) and acetaminophen antidote (IV/oral). Bronchospasm possible with nebulization — pretreat with bronchodilator. Foul smell.

Species with Acetylcysteine dosing data (7 dose rules)

African Grey ParrotBearded DragonCat (Domestic)Dog (Domestic)Guinea PigRabbit (Domestic)

Evidence levels across 7 dose rules

Moderate×1Strong×2Weak×4

Each ExoticRx dose rule is graded by the strength of its primary evidence — see the editorial process.

Backed by 2 published primary sources

  • · Carpenter's Exotic Animal Formulary, 6th Ed
  • · Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

Sample dosing (2 of 7 cited rules)

Free-tier preview — dog and cat dosing. Pro and Student unlock all 6 species including reptiles, birds, pocket pets, livestock, and equine.

SpeciesRouteDoseFrequencyEvidenceSource
Dog (Domestic)IV140 mg/kgIV loading, then 70 mg/kg q4h x 17 dosesStrongPlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed
Dog (Domestic)Nebulization50 mg/ml nebulizedq6-12hModeratePlumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook, 9th Ed

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