Related Experiment Videos
Hypersensitivity-like reactions to N-acetylcysteine.
Veterinary and Human Toxicology
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Intravenous N-acetylcysteine for acetaminophen overdose can cause skin reactions like urticaria. Antihistamines may prevent these allergic-like symptoms from worsening.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
- Allergy
Background:
- Acetaminophen overdose is a common clinical problem.
- Intravenous N-acetylcysteine is the standard antidote for acetaminophen poisoning.
- Hypersensitivity reactions to intravenous N-acetylcysteine have been reported.
Observation:
- Nine episodes of presumed allergic reactions occurred in seven patients treated with IV N-acetylcysteine.
- Reactions were limited to the skin (urticaria, angioedema) and pruritus.
- No bronchospasm or hypotension was observed.
Findings:
- Skin reactions and pruritus were the primary manifestations of hypersensitivity.
- Parenteral antihistamine administration allowed completion of IV N-acetylcysteine in four cases without symptom progression.
- These reactions appear to be hypersensitivity-like rather than true anaphylaxis.
Implications:
- The findings suggest that IV N-acetylcysteine can cause cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions.
- Antihistamine premedication may be beneficial in preventing or managing these reactions.
- This information is crucial for balancing the risks and benefits of IV N-acetylcysteine therapy in acetaminophen overdose.