Title:The Clinical Role of N-acetylcysteine in the Management of COPD: A Review of Recent Literature
Volume: 12
Issue: 2
Author(s): Christopher J. Gillard and Claire M. Reuter
Affiliation:
Keywords:
N-acetylcysteine, COPD, COPD exacerbation, mucolytic.
Abstract: Currently, bronchodilators are the mainstay treatment of stable chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease while systemic corticosteroids and antibiotics have a major role in COPD acute
exacerbations. Inhaled N-acetylcysteine is a mucolytic that has a pharmacologic role in respiratory
conditions associated with excessive thick mucus production. Additionally, N-acetylcysteine has
been studied as an adjunct agent for the clinical management of COPD because of its antioxidant and
inflammatory properties. This paper provides a narrative review of literature on the effect Nacetylcysteine
has on clinical outcomes in stable COPD and in acute COPD exacerbations. Primary
literature was sought utilizing databases using Medline (2004-present). The database was searched
using the key MeSH terms N-acetylcysteine and COPD, COPD exacerbation.
Current literature indicates in conjunction with standard drug regimen according to the COPD
treatment guidelines, regular and high dose N-acetylcysteine (NAC) decrease frequency of
exacerbations in stable COPD patient. Additionally, high dose N-acetylcysteine may improve airway
obstruction in stable COPD patients. There is insignificant data for the use of N-acetylcysteine for
patients experiencing acute exacerbations of COPD. Further studies should be performed as the
overall benefits are still not fully established.
