АЦЦ Лонг

Quick links to important sections

АЦЦ Лонг

Selected form

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of АЦЦ Лонг

Property Description
Active ingredient Acetylcysteine (N-acetyl-L-cysteine)
Form Effervescent tablet (for oral solution)
Pharmacological class Mucolytic agent and Secretolytic agent
General purpose Reducing the viscosity of thick bronchial secretions
Origin Synthetic origin

What Type of Medicine is АЦЦ Лонг and Its Classification?

АЦЦ Лонг is a synthetic medicinal product whose active ingredient is Acetylcysteine, which functions as a mucolytic agent. This classification means the medicine is specifically designed to chemically modify the physical structure of secretions in the respiratory tract. It is further identified as a secretolytic agent, positioning it within the family of respiratory tract drugs available over-the-counter (OTC) in many regions. The core purpose of a mucolytic agent is to break down the highly complex molecules that give sputum its excessive stickiness, facilitating their removal from the body.


Composition, Origin, and the Effervescent Tablet Form

The medicine is a single active ingredient preparation of synthetic origin, delivered in an oral dosage form as an effervescent tablet. This specific dosage form is designed to be dissolved completely in water before consumption, creating an aqueous solution for oral administration. The brand designation “Long-acting” (ACC Long) signifies a formulation often designed for less frequent dosing, generally targeting adults who require sustained support in managing chronic respiratory fluid issues. Acetylcysteine directly reduces mucus thickness via its chemical structure.


What is the General Purpose of This Mucolytic Agent?

The general purpose of this mucolytic agent is to effectively reduce the viscosity of thick, congested mucus in the airways. The active component achieves this by actively breaking the stabilizing disulfide bonds within the mucoproteins of the viscous secretion. For example, it is typically used to alleviate the uncomfortable sensation of heavy, deep-seated chest congestion by making the mucus thin enough for the patient to expel. By thinning the secretions, АЦЦ Лонг promotes a more effective expectorant action, ultimately assisting the body's natural ability to clear the respiratory passages when mucus becomes overly thick and difficult to expel.

What side effects are possible with АЦЦ Лонг?

Possible side effects and safety information

Official regulatory documents classify the potential adverse reactions of Acetylcysteine based on their frequency and the body system affected. These classifications are used to formally communicate the medicine’s risk profile, spanning from more common issues to rare but serious safety concerns.


Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are formally grouped by regulatory frequency categories. Uncommon side effects (reported in ge 1/1,000 to <1/100 patients) include gastrointestinal disturbances (such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea), headache, tinnitus, tachycardia, and various hypersensitivity reactions (including rash, pruritus, and urticaria). Reactions classified as Rare include bronchospasm and dyspnoea.


Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The label documents the potential for Very Rare but clinically significant adverse reactions. These include anaphylactic shock/anaphylactoid reactions and Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN). The risk of SCARs is noted to be highest at the beginning of treatment.

Specific safety considerations exist for certain populations. Caution is advised for patients with bronchial asthma due to the documented risk of bronchospasm. Similarly, individuals with a history of peptic ulcers or oesophageal varices require specific caution. The medicine is formally contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any excipients.


High-Level Safety Notes

The regulatory profile includes high-level safety consequences, such as the note that concurrent use with nitroglycerin may lead to significant hypotension. Furthermore, the slight sulphur odor of the product is noted as a characteristic property of the active substance and does not indicate a defect.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose Scope

Documented Overdose Presentations: Overdose may present with gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting), central nervous system effects (headache, drowsiness, confusion), and cardiovascular changes such as hypotension. Hypersensitivity reactions, including flushing, rash, and urticaria, are also documented.

Physiological Systems Affected (as stated in label): Systems affected include the Gastrointestinal, Central Nervous System, Cardiovascular, and Respiratory (bronchoconstriction). Severe outcomes also involve Hematologic and Renal systems (e.g., Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome).

Dose-related or Exposure-related Factors (if applicable): Severe outcomes, including fatal or life-threatening anaphylaxis, are associated with the administration of excessive doses or infusion errors.

Population-specific Overdose Notes (if applicable): Lower-weight patients, particularly children, are identified as vulnerable to the risk of fluid overload during any high-volume intravenous overdose management, necessitating caution with administered volume.

Emergency-response Statements (as written in official documents): The required management standard is symptomatic and supportive treatment. Treatment for severe hypersensitivity involves antihistamines and epinephrine. Monitoring includes assessment of liver enzymes (AST/ALT), prothrombin time, creatinine, and electrolytes.

When Immediate Medical Help is Required (label-derived phrasing only): Immediate medical attention is mandated for severe systemic manifestations such as significant hypotension, profound shortness of breath, or any sign of life-threatening anaphylaxis.


Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Severity Classification (as defined in official documents): Ranges from common dose-related gastrointestinal and systemic effects to severe or life-threatening outcomes (e.g., fatal anaphylaxis, cerebral edema).

Regulatory Basis (EMA / FDA / etc.): Information is based on official FDA Prescribing Information and European Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) guidelines concerning overdose and adverse systemic reactions.

Overdose-context Constraints (as defined in official documents): The absence of a specific antidote for Acetylcysteine overdose (as a mucolytic) constrains management solely to symptomatic, supportive treatment, and observation.


Connection to the Overall Overdose Profile

Regulatory documents define the Acetylcysteine overdose profile by detailing specific systemic manifestations—including gastrointestinal, CNS, and cardiovascular effects—that follow excessive exposure. This profile necessitates mandated emergency actions, specifically requiring patients to seek immediate medical help for any sign of severe reaction or life-threatening symptoms. Furthermore, the documents constrain management options by stating that symptomatic and supportive treatment is the essential procedural step, alongside detailed laboratory monitoring for assessing systemic impact.

Therapeutic Uses of АЦЦ Лонг

The therapeutic relevance of this medication is primarily associated with easing the symptoms of thick secretions. АЦЦ Лонг is generally used to provide supportive relief for conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms related to impaired respiratory clearance.

The medication is commonly applied in clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns, such as Acute Bronchitis, Tracheobronchitis, and Pneumonia. It is also considered relevant for the long-term management of chronic disorders like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Chronic Bronchitis where persistent mucus retention is a factor. The overall supportive role helps in managing the process of airway clearance when symptoms are present.

For these uses, the medicine helps manage symptom clusters related to viscid, tenacious phlegm and deep-seated chest congestion. It contributes to improved comfort by supporting patients during difficult episodes of expectoration related to viscid, tenacious phlegm.


Quick Fact: Symptomatic Support for Thick, Retained Mucus


Regulatory References

  1. NIH StatPearls overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Profile: Acetylcysteine 600 mg (ACC Long)

This eligibility information is based on official government regulatory documents, outlining populations that may or may not use the 600 mg dose strength.

Contraindications (Must Not Be Used)

Population/Condition Regulatory Status Rationale/Basis
Children Contraindicated Due to high active substance content, the 600 mg dose is unsuitable for those under 14 years of age.
Active Peptic Ulcer Contraindicated Use is prohibited in patients with active peptic ulcer disease.
Hypersensitivity Contraindicated Known allergy to acetylcysteine or any excipients of the formulation.

Populations Requiring Caution or Restriction

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use is not recommended due to insufficient data to establish safety during these periods.
  • Bronchial Asthma: Must be used with caution and close monitoring, as acetylcysteine may induce bronchospasm.
  • History of Peptic Ulcer Disease: Use requires caution.
  • Sugar Intolerance: Specific formulations are contraindicated for patients with rare hereditary problems of sugar intolerance (e.g., lactose or sorbitol intolerance) if those excipients are present.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

Official regulatory documentation identifies specific medicinal product categories and substances that require caution or restriction when used concomitantly with the active substance in АЦЦ Лонг (acetylcysteine).


Documented Interaction Domains

Interacting Product Category Practical Constraint Basis of Interaction
Cough Suppressants (Antitussives) Co-administration is not recommended. Pharmacodynamic conflict resulting in risk of stagnant secretions due to inhibited cough reflex.
Oral Antibiotics (e.g., Tetracyclines, Penicillins) Require time separation. Chemical/physical incompatibility that can reduce antibiotic efficacy.
Nitroglycerin Requires monitoring for hypotension. Potentiation of vasodilating and antiplatelet effects.
Activated Charcoal Reduced absorption upon co-administration. Adsorption of the active substance.

Official Regulatory Constraints

Co-administration with cough suppressants is subject to a strong regulatory caution due to the risk of secre- tion buildup. For certain oral antibiotics, official labeling mandates a minimum two-hour interval between administrations to prevent a reduction in efficacy. Concurrent use with Nitroglycerin requires clinical caution, specifically monitoring for hypotension, as the vasodilating effects may be potentiated. The absorption of the active substance may be reduced if administered with activated charcoal.

Mechanism of Action

Direct Chemical Action: Reducing Mucus Viscosity

The primary action of the active ingredient, acetylcysteine, is to directly engage the mucin glycoproteins that form the structure of respiratory secretions. It exerts a mucolytic effect through its sulfhydryl group ( SH^-), which chemically breaks the disulfide bonds ( S-S) that cross-link the large mucin proteins. This process results in the depolymerization of the secretion structure, directly leading to a significant reduction in the mucus's viscosity and elasticity, which results in altered physicochemical properties of the secretion.


Cellular Defense: Modulating Antioxidant Pathways

Acetylcysteine also engages a cellular defense mechanism. The drug is deacetylated in vivo to provide the necessary amino acid L-cysteine, which acts as a precursor for the synthesis of the vital endogenous antioxidant, glutathione (GSH). The mechanism provides substrates for the synthesis of the critical antioxidant, glutathione (GSH), thereby contributing to the neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and supporting the maintenance of cellular redox balance.

Dosage and Administration Information

Instruction Map: How to use АЦЦ Лонг — Administration Guidelines

This map formalizes the usage instructions for Acetylcysteine 600 mg effervescent tablets for its mucolytic indication.


Administration Scope

Feature Guideline
Route of administration: Oral route, only after the effervescent tablet is fully dissolved.
Dosing schedule: Standard daily dose is 600 mg of Acetylcysteine.
Timing in relation to meals (if applicable): Advised to take after food; ample fluid intake is encouraged to support mucolytic effect.
Preparation requirements (if applicable): The tablet must be dissolved completely in water (e.g., half a glass); the solution must be drunk immediately.
Age-group administration rules: Not suitable for children under 14 years due to high content; use is contraindicated in children under 2 years.
Missed-dose rules: Specific instructions for a missed dose are not detailed in core administrative sections, implying a return to the next scheduled dose.
Special procedural conditions: Oral antibiotics must be administered at least two hours before or after Acetylcysteine. Weakened patients are advised to take the tablet in the mornings.

Instruction Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Detail
Administration method type: Oral administration after required dissolution.
Frequency pattern: Once daily (600 mg) or Twice daily (divided 300 mg doses).
Basis: Standardized product profile.
Use-context constraints: Used for a short course (not exceeding 14 days) unless directed by a clinician; strict separation from certain oral antibiotics.

Resulting Procedural Structure

Step sequence:

  • Dissolve one effervescent tablet (600 mg) or half a tablet (300 mg) completely in water.
  • Consume the resulting solution immediately, ideally following a meal.
  • Maintain a two-hour interval between the consumption of this medicine and any prescribed oral antibiotics.

Connection to the overall use protocol:

The protocol dictates a standardized 600 mg daily dose to be taken orally after a required dissolution step. This procedure confirms the conditions of use for adults and adolescents over 14 years, specifying required intake timing and enforcing crucial separation constraints from certain co-administered medications.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Clinical Studies in Osteoarthritis (OA)

  • Biological Action: Studies have explored the biological action of the agent, and research has examined whether it is associated with improvements in joint mobility in participants with severe OA.
  • Symptom Response: Research has investigated whether the agent is associated with a reduction in pain and inflammation, and some studies evaluated whether a rapid onset of effect was observed. Studies explored whether a long-term decrease in symptoms was observed in participants.
  • Phase III Trials: Phase III trials evaluated the agent against placebo and reported a difference in measured outcomes between the treatment group and placebo, and these findings were evaluated regarding the agent's measured effect.

Safety Profile and Potential Interactions

  • Observed Adverse Events: Studies reported common adverse events including gastrointestinal distress and temporary skin irritation at the injection site.
  • Interaction Research: Research has explored the potential for interactions when this agent is used alongside NSAIDs, noting an increased incidence of gastric issues in some studies.
  • Long-Term Monitoring: Five-year follow-up studies collected data on structural progression of OA. Studies evaluated whether it was associated with better long-term outcomes for joint preservation.

Exploration in Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

  • Anti-inflammatory Evaluation: Studies examined whether the observed anti-inflammatory effect was associated with a decrease in the frequency of flare-ups in patients with RA.
  • Population and Safety: Safety data were collected in studies involving adult participants with RA. Research has explored potential risks for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions who participated in these RA trials.
  • Combination Therapy: Studies evaluated whether the combination of this agent with standard disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) was associated with an increase in overall treatment success, and the results were collected in a study comparing the agent to older therapies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about АЦЦ Лонг (FAQ)


Q: Can АЦЦ Лонг help with a dry cough?

A: According to official product information, this medicine is indicated only for respiratory tract diseases characterized by thick and viscous hypersecretion (mucus). This indicates its intended use is to help clear wet, congested airways, which typically does not describe a dry cough.


Q: How quickly should I feel the effects of АЦЦ Лонг?

A: Regulatory information on the drug’s absorption, known as pharmacokinetics, indicates that the maximum concentration in the blood plasma is generally reached approximately 1 to 2 hours after administration. However, official labels do not specify the exact time it takes for a patient to feel symptom relief.


Q: Does АЦЦ Лонг cause drowsiness?

A: Official regulatory documents, which detail the drug’s safety profile, state that drowsiness is not listed as a common or uncommon side effect for this medicine. A significant impact on wakefulness is generally considered unlikely, based on the documented side effect profile.


Q: Is a metallic taste in the mouth a known side effect of АЦЦ Лонг?

A: A metallic taste is not listed among the common or uncommon side effects detailed in the official regulatory documents. If any unexpected reaction occurs, the recommended action is to consult with a healthcare professional.


Q: Is there any research on the use of АЦЦ Лонг for chronic lung conditions?

A: Official regulatory sources state that the medicine is indicated for respiratory tract diseases characterized by thick and viscous secretions. This includes established conditions such as chronic bronchitis and its exacerbations.


Q: Do studies show that АЦЦ Лонг is effective for upper respiratory infections?

A: The medicine is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of acute respiratory conditions where thick, viscous mucus is present, such as certain forms of acute bronchitis. The overall goal is to help thin mucus and make it easier to clear from the airways.


Q: Is АЦЦ Лонг safe for adults over 65?

A: Regulatory documents indicate that caution is advised for patients with a reduced ability to cough (such as elderly or frail patients). This is because the medicine liquefies bronchial secretions, which may initially increase in volume. Official documentation does not typically specify different dosing criteria for the general elderly population.


Q: What are the ingredients in the effervescent tablet besides the main drug?

A: Official product information lists the active ingredient, Acetylcysteine, along with a number of excipients (inactive ingredients). These typically include compounds like citric acid and sodium hydrogen carbonate to facilitate the effervescent action, along with possible flavouring and sweeteners.


Q: Why is this drug sometimes used in hospitals for other purposes?

A: While the primary consumer use is as a mucolytic, official documents note that acetylcysteine has other established clinical uses. Most notably, it is used as an antidote for acetaminophen (Paracetamol) overdose.


Q: What are the signs of a rare side effect mentioned in official documents?

A: Regulatory documents advise immediately stopping use if signs of serious allergic reactions or Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs) occur, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Signs that may signal a serious reaction include fever, rash, joint pain, blistering, or peeling of the skin.


Q: Does АЦЦ Лонг have a taste, and is it flavored?

A: The tablets often contain flavourings (e.g., fruit or citrus) and sweeteners to improve the palatability of the solution. The product is also noted to have a characteristic slight sulphur odor, which is not an indication of a defect in the medicine.


Q: Is there a specific period of time after which I should stop taking АЦЦ Лонг if my symptoms don't improve?

A: If respiratory symptoms worsen or do not improve within 14 days of treatment, official guidance recommends consulting a healthcare professional.


Q: Are there any warnings about driving or operating machinery while using АЦЦ Лонг?

A: Regulatory documents state that there are no data available on the effect of acetylcysteine on the ability to drive or use machines. Based on the known effects, a measurable impact on these activities is generally considered unlikely.


Q: What kind of cough is АЦЦ Лонг used for?

A: According to official documentation, the medicine is indicated for respiratory diseases with excessive mucous secretion. This applies to conditions like acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis where thick mucus is difficult to expel.


Q: Is it safe to take АЦЦ Лонг for a long time?

A: The drug is intended for a short course of treatment for acute conditions. Its use for acute conditions is generally not intended to extend beyond 14 days without consultation with a healthcare professional.


Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks I should avoid while taking АЦЦ Лонг?

A: The medication is advised to be taken after food. No common foods or non-water drinks are specifically restricted in official documents, but certain oral antibiotics require a two-hour time separation from this medicine.


Q: Can I take АЦЦ Лонг if I am already taking other cold and flu medicines?

A: Official documents advise that co-administration with cough suppressants (antitussives) is not recommended. This is because blocking the cough reflex carries the regulatory caution of a risk of secretion buildup in the airways.


Q: What is the difference between АЦЦ Лонг and other popular cough syrups or tablets?

A: АЦЦ Лонг (acetylcysteine) is officially classified as a mucolytic agent. This means it works by chemically breaking down the large molecular structure of the mucus, resulting in significantly lower viscosity.


Q: Does the medicine contain lactose or gluten?

A: Official product information states that the 600 mg effervescent tablets often contain lactose as an excipient. The label includes warnings for individuals with rare hereditary problems of sugar intolerance if those excipients are present in the formulation.


Q: Can АЦЦ Лонг be taken at night?

A: The official protocol advises that patients with a reduced ability to cough (e.g., frail or elderly patients) should take the tablet preferably in the morning. This guidance reflects the official recommendation for individuals in this specific population.


Q: Does АЦЦ Лонг affect blood pressure?

A: When taken concomitantly with nitroglycerin, regulatory documents state that acetylcysteine may potentiate the vasodilating effect. This interaction can potentially result in significant hypotension (a drop in blood pressure) that requires monitoring.


Q: What is the difference in how АЦЦ Лонг and an expectorant work?

A: Acetylcysteine is categorized as a mucolytic, meaning it chemically breaks down the physical bonds in the mucus to reduce its viscosity. By making the mucus thinner, it ultimately facilitates expectoration and aids in the body's natural clearance process.

How should АЦЦ Лонг be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal of АЦЦ Лонг (Acetylcysteine)

Official regulatory information dictates strict rules for the storage and disposal of АЦЦ Лонг effervescent tablets to ensure product integrity and environmental protection.


Storage Conditions

The product must be stored at a temperature not exceeding 25 C. Due to the nature of the effervescent tablet, the medicine must be kept in its original container and the tube must be kept tightly closed to protect from moisture. The medicine must also be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

  • In-Use Stability: After the tube is first opened, the contents must be used within a maximum period, typically 10 to 20 days, depending on the original pack size.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired АЦЦ Лонг must not be thrown away via wastewater or household waste. Patients are instructed to ask the pharmacist for the correct procedure to dispose of the medicine in accordance with local regulatory requirements.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of АЦЦ Лонг found in:

A-Z Index: