Acetylcysteine (N-acetylcysteine / NAC) is a mucolytic medicine → it breaks down thick mucus and makes it thinner and easier to clear.
It is sometimes used in pediatric practice, but usually in older children (≥2–3 years) and under strict doctor’s supervision.
Comes in syrup/sachet/oral solution form.
Dose depends on age and body weight.
It is generally well tolerated but can cause:
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Rarely: bronchospasm in asthmatic kids
In toddlers, doctors prefer saline drops, steam, hydration before starting mucolytics.
NAC should not be given on your own without a pediatrician’s prescription.
Not usually a first-line medicine for routine cough/post-nasal drip in small children.
For allergy-driven mucus (like in your toddler’s case), antihistamines/montelukast + saline are more effective than NAC.
✅ Summary for your toddler:
Acetylcysteine can be given, but only if prescribed by a pediatrician and if mucus is very thick/sticky and not improving with safer measures.
First choice → saline, steam, hydration, antihistamine (bilastine), montelukast.
NAC is more of a second-line option.
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