Stability of Acetylcysteine Vials After Puncture

Acetylcysteine solution remains stable for up to 96 hours in a refrigerator after a vial has been punctured. 1

Storage Recommendations for Opened Vials

Unopened vials should be stored at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F), with excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) 1
After opening, if only a portion of the solution in a vial is used, the remaining undiluted portion should be stored in a refrigerator and used within 96 hours 1
A change in color may occur after opening, but this does not affect the efficacy of the drug 1

Acetylcysteine solution does not contain an antimicrobial agent, so care must be taken to minimize contamination of the sterile solution 1
Dilutions of acetylcysteine should be freshly prepared and utilized within one hour 1
For higher concentrations, research has shown that NAC 60 mg/mL diluted in 0.9% sodium chloride, 0.45% sodium chloride, or 5% dextrose and stored in PVC bags at 25°C remains chemically and physically stable for at least 72 hours 2

The 20% solution may be diluted to a lesser concentration with either Sodium Chloride Injection, Sodium Chloride Inhalation Solution, Sterile Water for Injection, or Sterile Water for Inhalation 1
The 10% solution may be used undiluted 1
When administering acetylcysteine, certain materials used in nebulization equipment may react with the solution, particularly certain metals (notably iron and copper) and rubber 1
Recommended materials for equipment that may come into contact with acetylcysteine solution include glass, plastic, aluminum, anodized aluminum, chromed metal, tantalum, sterling silver, or stainless steel 1

Proper storage of opened vials is crucial to maintain drug efficacy while treating acetaminophen overdose, which is a leading cause of acute liver failure 3
Acetylcysteine is the antidote of choice for paracetamol (acetaminophen) poisoning, making proper handling and storage essential for emergency situations 3, 4
When preparing solutions for administration, sterile technique should be used to minimize contamination risk 5
For emergency situations, proper preparation and storage of acetylcysteine is critical as it serves as the primary treatment for acetaminophen toxicity 5

Acetylcysteine is not approved for parenteral injection outside of its indicated use as an antidote 1
When used for respiratory conditions as a mucolytic agent, proper storage of opened vials remains important to maintain efficacy 6
For patients receiving acetylcysteine for acetaminophen overdose, ensuring proper storage of opened vials helps maintain the availability of the antidote throughout the treatment course 5