Important Disclaimer: This summary is for educational and informational purposes only and should not, under any circumstances, replace direct consultation with a qualified physician or pharmacist. Always refer to the product's internal leaflet or consult a healthcare professional before use.
Acetapax® 14 Sachets
Manufacturer
Acetapax® is manufactured by Paxal Pharmaceutical, an Egyptian company specializing in respiratory formulations.
Introduction
Acetapax® is a combination medication designed to clear thick mucus and support respiratory health. It combines the potent mucolytic (mucus-thinning) action of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) with the supportive properties of thyme extract and Vitamin C. Formulated as a powder sachet, it is ideal for treating upper and lower respiratory conditions accompanied by congestion and a productive cough.
Indications and Usage
- Acute and chronic bronchitis and exacerbations of COPD.
- Sinusitis, pharyngitis, and other respiratory infections that produce thick mucus.
- Productive cough (a cough that brings up phlegm).
- Supportive (adjunctive) care in conditions like cystic fibrosis.
Characteristics
- Form: Powder sachet, to be dissolved in water.
- Active Ingredients per Sachet:
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC): 600 mg
- Thyme Extract: Standardized Herbal Dose
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): 80 mg
- Mechanism of Action:
- NAC: Breaks down disulfide bonds in mucus, making it thinner and easier to cough up.
- Thyme: Acts as an expectorant and soothes the throat, helping to reduce cough spasms.
- Vitamin C: Supports immune function and reduces oxidative stress during infection.
Dosage and Administration
- Adults & Adolescents (≥12 years):
→ 1 sachet dissolved in approximately 150 mL of water, once or twice daily. - Children (6–12 years):
→ 1 sachet once daily, or as directed by a physician. - Method: Stir the powder in a glass of water until dissolved and consume immediately. It can be taken with or without food.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake throughout the day to maximize the mucolytic effect.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to NAC, thyme, Vitamin C, or any other ingredient.
- Active gastric or duodenal ulcers.
- Use with caution in patients with a history of GI bleeding.
Warnings and Precautions
- Bronchospasm Risk: Use with extreme caution in asthmatic patients, as NAC can rarely induce bronchospasm. Treatment should be stopped if this occurs.
- GI Effects: May cause nausea or stomach upset. Taking it with food can help minimize this.
- Thyme Allergy: Avoid if you have a known allergy to thyme or other plants in the Lamiaceae family (e.g., mint, oregano).
- Sufficient Fluids: It is crucial to drink plenty of water to help the medication work effectively.
Pharmacokinetics (Absorption, Metabolism, Excretion)
- NAC: Well-absorbed orally and quickly deacetylated in the liver to L-cysteine, a precursor to the vital antioxidant glutathione. It has a plasma half-life of approximately 5-6 hours and is excreted via the kidneys.
- Thyme & Vitamin C: Absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Excess Vitamin C is excreted in the urine.
Side Effects
- Common: Mild gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), an unusual taste or smell from the medication.
- Occasional: Headache, rash, or mild throat irritation.
- Rare but Serious: Bronchospasm (especially in asthmatics), severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), stomatitis (sore mouth).
Drug Interactions
- Antitussives (Cough Suppressants): This is a critical interaction. Avoid taking Acetapax® with medicines that stop coughing (e.g., those containing codeine or dextromethorphan). NAC thins the mucus, and the body needs to be able to cough it out. Suppressing the cough can lead to a dangerous buildup of fluid in the lungs.
- Nitroglycerin: May increase the risk of headache and hypotension when taken together.
- Activated Charcoal: Reduces the absorption of NAC. Doses should be separated by at least 2 hours.
- Certain Antibiotics: It is advisable to separate the administration of oral antibiotics (like tetracyclines) and NAC by at least two hours to ensure full absorption of both.
Patient Counseling
- Dissolve the sachet in a glass of water and drink the entire solution right away.
- Drink plenty of extra water throughout the day to help thin the mucus.
- Do not take this medicine with a cough suppressant.
- Report to your doctor if your cough worsens, is accompanied by a high fever, or does not improve after a week.
- Store the sachets in a cool, dry place, and keep them out of the reach of children.
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