Acetylcysteine

Acetylcysteine is a medication used for several medical purposes. It acts as a mucolytic agent, helping to loosen and thin mucus in the lungs to improve breathing in conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and bronchitis. Acetylcysteine is also a critical antidote for acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose, working to prevent or reduce liver damage. In addition, research has explored its use for certain mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and skin picking disorder (excoriation), although these uses are considered off-label.