Pharma & Specialty Chemical Standards

Acetylcysteine (IUPAC: N-Acetylcysteine; molecular formula C5H11NO3S, molecular weight 163.20 g/mol) is a thiol-containing amino acid derivative. Classified as a mucolytic agent, its structure features an acetylated cysteine residue with a sulfhydryl (-SH) group. It is therapeutically used as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose and to reduce mucus viscosity in respiratory conditions. Physicochemically, it is a white, water-soluble solid with a pKa of ~9.5. Its mechanism involves glutathione replenishment, scavenging toxic acetaminophen metabolites, and cleaving disulfide bonds in mucus via its thiol group, enhancing expectoration.