Cetylev

Generic name: Acetylcysteine Effervescent Tablets
Drug class: Antidotes

Medically reviewed by  A Ras MD.

What is Cetylev?

Cetylev is used to treat acetaminophen overdose. Cetylev may be given to you for other reasons.

Before taking Cetylev, tell your doctor:

• If you are allergic to Cetylev; any part of this medicine; or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.

This medicine may interact with other drugs or health problems.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Cetylev with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.

What are some things I need to know or do while I take Cetylev?

• Tell all of your health care providers that you take Cetylev. This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
• If you are on a low-sodium or sodium-free diet, talk with your doctor. Some of these products have sodium.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan on getting pregnant, or are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks to you and the baby.

How is Cetylev best taken?

Use Cetylev as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.

• Melt the tablet(s) in water as you have been told by the doctor. Do not swallow the tablet(s) whole.
• Drink within 2 hours of mixing.
• If you throw up within 1 hour of taking Cetylev, take 1 more dose.
• Those who have feeding tubes may use Cetylev. Use as you have been told. Flush the feeding tube after Cetylev is given.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it.
• If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time.
• Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses.

What are the side effects of Cetylev that I need to call my doctor about immediately?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Shortness of breath.
• Black, tarry, or bloody stools.
• Throwing up blood or throw up that looks like coffee grounds.

What are some other side effects of Cetylev?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Upset stomach or throwing up.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

If overdose is suspected:

If you think there has been an overdose, call your poison control center or get medical care right away. Be ready to tell or show what was taken, how much, and when it happened.

How do I store and/or throw out Cetylev?

• Store in the original container at room temperature.
• Keep all drugs in a safe place. Keep all drugs out of the reach of children and pets.
• Throw away unused or expired drugs. Do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless you are told to do so. Check with your pharmacist if you have questions about the best way to throw out drugs. There may be drug take-back programs in your area.