ACC akut® is a drug for the treatment of respiratory diseases and for mucolytic (mucolytic) mucus dissolution. ACC is the abbreviation for the active ingredient N-acetylcysteine, which is responsible for the liquefaction of secretion (secretolytic) and the subsequent removal of mucus (secretomotoric). Trade names: Chemical name:
- ACC
- Acemuc
- Acetyst
- Fluimucil
- Myxofate
- NAC
- L-N-acetylcysteine (R-2-acetylamino-3-sulfanylpropanoic acid)
- L-alpha-acetamido-beta-mercaptoproprionic acid
Fields of application
ACC akut® is used for the symptomatic treatment of respiratory tract diseases, such as bronchitis, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or cystic fibrosis, in which increased mucus formation or reduced mucus removal can cause breathing difficulties. The active substance acetylcysteine contained in ACC akut® is also regularly used as an antidote for poisoning with the drug paracetamol or for poisoning with acrylonitrile, methacrylonitrile or methyl bromide. ACC akut® can be taken by mouth (orally) in the form of powder, lozenges or chewable tablets as well as effervescent tablets or juices.
Effect
The problem with increased mucus formation is that when it is particularly tough (viscous), it constricts the airways. On the one hand, this makes it more difficult for air to enter the lungs, and on the other hand the mucus can serve as a breeding ground for undesirable germs. One solution to this problem is to liquefy the mucus so that it can be coughed up more easily.
Presumably ACC akut® leads to a liquefaction of the mucus by breaking the disulfide bridges that provide the mucus resistance. However, the mucolytic effect has not yet been clearly clarified according to the current state of research. Furthermore, ACC akut® has a deescalating effect in inflammations by intercepting chemically aggressive substances (free radicals) as a so-called antioxidant. Finally, acetylcysteine (the active ingredient of ACC akut®) acts as a supplier of the amino acid cysteine, which is found in the human body. This is an integral component of the so-called glutathione molecule, which plays a central role in the removal of toxic substances.
Application
ACC akut® should be taken in the dosage form of the tablet with plenty of liquid (preferably water). The effervescent tablet should first be dissolved in a glass of water and then drunk after meals. In addition, it is recommended to pay attention to a sufficient liquid supply independent of the intake of ACC akut® , because in this way the mucus solution is promoted.
Dosage
Depending on age, general condition and severity of symptoms, children may take up to 400mg of the active substance and adults 600mg per day. All oral forms of ACC akut® are available in dosages of 100mg, 200mg, 400mg and 600mg. In general, ACC akut® is a well tolerated drug.
However, as with any drug, there are possible side effects. These include the occasional occurrence of allergic reactions (rash, itching, blistering, swelling of the mucous membranes, shortness of breath, circulatory problems and shock), headache, fever and gastrointestinal complaints (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea). Should side effects occur, it is always advisable to consult a doctor to discuss further procedures.
