We all know that paracetamol is a medicine that is used for everything from minor headaches to fever. It is very safe if used properly. But imagine what would happen if someone accidentally, out of sadness, or anger took a lot of paracetamol tablets at once? Many people think that it is not a big deal. But in fact, it can cause serious, life-threatening damage to the liver, one of the most important organs in our body. In such an emergency, we are talking today about a life-saving medicine that doctors give to save the damaged liver . That is acetylcysteine .
Simply put, what is acetylcysteine?
Acetylcysteine is an antidote for paracetamol ( acetaminophen ) poisoning. To be precise, it is a special medicine that is given to stop or reduce the damage to the liver caused by excessive paracetamol intake.
Think of our liver as a big factory. Every medicine we take is processed inside this factory. When we take the right amount of paracetamol, the liver can handle it without any problems. To help with that, there is a natural protector in the liver called 'Glutathione'.
However, when you take a lot of paracetamol at once, the liver becomes overloaded and that protector, that is, glutathione, runs out. Then a toxic chemical produced by paracetamol starts destroying the liver cells. That's when this medicine called acetylcysteine comes to the rescue. What this does is to rebuild that depleted protector, called glutathione, and protect the liver.
That means, this is not just a painkiller or a medicine for fever. This is a specific treatment given to save the liver in cases of paracetamol poisoning.
How can I give you this medicine?
This is not a medicine you can buy at a pharmacy and use at home. Acetylcysteine is a medicine that is only given under medical supervision in a hospital or clinic .
- Most common method of administration: This medication is most often given through a saline solution given into a vein (intravenous or IV injection ). This treatment is done by slowly infusing the prescribed dose into the body over several hours.
- Other methods: In some emergencies, this medicine can also be given through a stomach tube or by mouth.
This treatment is even given to children, but it is done with special precautions and under the strict supervision of doctors.
Things to tell your doctor before treatment
Before you or your loved one who has overdosed on paracetamol is treated, it is important to tell the doctor the following information. Providing the truth at this time can help save a life.
- Other medical conditions you have: Tell us if you have had any previous conditions such as stomach ulcers or varicose veins in the esophagus .
- Allergies : Be sure to tell your doctor if you have had any allergic reactions to acetylcysteine, any other medicine, food, or dye.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: You should also tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
What do you do if someone takes too much paracetamol?
This is the most important thing. If you have the slightest suspicion that someone has taken too much paracetamol, don't delay for a minute .
1. Go to the hospital immediately: Take him to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible. The time it takes to take paracetamol is very important. If acetylcysteine treatment can be started within the first 8 hours, liver damage can be largely prevented.
2. Poison Information Centre: If possible, call the National Poison Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital on your way to the hospital and get advice. They will tell you exactly what to do.
3. Number of pills taken: If possible, give your doctor a rough idea of the number of pills taken, the type of pill (e.g. 500mg), and the time of day they were taken. This will help a lot in planning treatment.
Possible side effects of this medicine
As with any medicine, acetylcysteine can cause side effects in some people. Some of these should be reported immediately, while others are usually not serious.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor or nurse immediately | |
| Severe Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Report these immediately if you notice them. |
| Difficulty breathing | If you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest tightness, report them immediately. |
| Low blood pressure | Dizziness, lightheadedness. The medical staff will monitor this. |
| Increased heart rate | If you feel your heart pounding for no reason, let me know. |
| Fever | If you suddenly develop a fever. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported if they persist | |
| Vomiting and nausea | This is common, but if it is severe or persistent, please tell me. |
| Flushing | When the medicine is given, the face may turn red and feel hot. |
| Drowsiness | It is normal to feel sleepy during treatment. |
Your doctor and nursing staff are constantly monitoring these side effects, so don't be afraid to tell them as soon as you feel any discomfort.
Take-Home Message
- Acetylcysteine is a life-saving treatment that prevents liver damage caused by paracetamol overdose.
- This is not a medicine that can be taken from a pharmacy and used at home. It is a treatment that is given only in a hospital, under medical supervision.
- If you suspect that someone has taken too much paracetamol, do not waste time and take them to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Time is of the essence.
- Always tell your doctor honestly about your medical conditions, allergies, and other medications you are taking.
- Paracetamol is a very safe medicine when used correctly, in the correct dosage. But like any medicine, it can have serious consequences if used incorrectly.
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