Acetadote

Generic name: acetylcysteine injection
Dosage form: injection
Drug class: Antidotes
Company: Cumberland Pharmaceuticals
Treatment for: Acetaminophen Overdose

Medically reviewed by Melisa Puckey, BPharm. Last updated on Jan 20, 2023.

What is Acetadote?

Acetadote is an FDA approved injection used to treat acetaminophen overdose.

Acetadote (acetylcysteine) is used in an emergency room setting to prevent or lessen potential liver damage resulting from an overdose of acetaminophen. Often an overdose of acetaminophen is unintentional, as it is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter painkillers. Acetadote, administered intravenously within 8 to 10 hours after ingestion of a potentially hepatotoxic quantity of acetaminophen, is indicated to prevent or lessen hepatic injury.

Acetadote was the first FDA approved injection for the treatment of acetaminophen overdose available in the United States.

Further information

For more information about Acetadote, including dosage and administration, adverse reactions, and use in specific populations, click here Acetadote Professional Medication Information.

Popular FAQ

What is Fluimucil used for?

Fluimucil is a brand name for acetylcysteine sachets and tablets which may be used to clear phlegm and liquefy thick and viscous mucus secretions caused by respiratory conditions such as acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, pulmonary emphysema, or bronchiectasis. It is a type of mucolytic. Fluimucil is available over the counter (without a prescription) in most countries that have it. Continue reading

What is NAC and how can it benefit your health?

NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) is a supplement that may be used to help people replenish glutathione – the most powerful antioxidant in the body. Levels of glutathione rapidly deplete during oxidative stress or after acetaminophen overdosage. NAC may also be used to help improve fertility, brain health, heart health, and long-term respiratory conditions (such as Asthma or COPD) and reduce the risk of developing certain cancers. In medicine, NAC has been used as an antidote to acetaminophen overdose since the 1960s and to treat those with acute liver failure. Continue reading