Acetylcysteine|Structure|Synthesis|Mechanism of action|Uses|Side-effects|Mercapturic acid|Fluimucil|Acetein|Mucomyst|Airbron|Mucofilin|Lysomucin

 Acetylcysteine 

It is a mucolytic agent which, is used in the treatment of chronic bronchopulmonary disorders. It is a sulfhydryl compound and n-acetyl derivative. Acetylcysteine is a white, crystalline powder with an acetic odor and sour taste. Acetylcysteine is soluble in alcohol and water. The molecular weight of acetylcysteine is 163.2 gm/mol. It is also known as, Mercapturic acid, Fluimucil, Acetein, Mucomyst, Airbron, Mucofilin, Lysomucin, etc. 

Structure:-

The molecular formula of acetylcysteine is, [C5H9NO3S].

The IUPAC name of acetylcysteine is, (2R)-2-acetamido-3-sulfanyl propanoic acid.

Synthesis:-

Mechanism of action:-

Glutathione is an antioxidant present in the liver. Acetylcysteine produces a sulfhydryl compound, which increases the synthesis of glutathione in the liver. Acetylcysteine breaks the disulfide bonds in mucoprotein complexes, which reduces the viscosity of mucus secretion this improves mucolytic clearance.

Uses:-

It is used to treat asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, etc.

Side effects:-

The overdose of acetylcysteine shows several adverse effects like Coughing in the blood, nausea, irritation in the trachea, fever, bronchospasm, drowsiness, etc.