Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

Corticoids plus N Acetyl Cysteine

Corticoids reduce inflammation and immune response while N-acetyl cysteine provides antioxidant support and mucolytic activity to protect lung tissue.

Corticoids reduce inflammation and immune response while N-acetyl cysteine provides antioxidant support and mucolytic activity to protect lung tissue. Used for Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or severe respiratory inflammation (Phase 3 trial context suggests acute lung injury).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Corticosteroids suppress inflammatory and immune responses by inhibiting cytokine production and immune cell activation. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) acts as a mucolytic agent and antioxidant, replenishing glutathione stores and reducing oxidative stress in respiratory tissue. The combination aims to address both inflammatory and oxidative components of acute lung injury or respiratory disease.

Approved indications

• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or severe respiratory inflammation (Phase 3 trial context suggests acute lung injury)

Common side effects

• Hyperglycemia
• Immunosuppression/infection risk
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Nausea

Key clinical trials

• Reducing Respiratory Symptoms of Pulmonary Irradiation in Interstitial Lung Disease (PHASE2)
• PROlonged Corticosteroid Treatment or N-ACetylcysteine for Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis (PHASE3)
• Utility of the Use of N-acetylcysteine Associated With Conventional Treatment in Patients With Severe Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis (Maddrey> 32) (NA)
• Treatment of Severe Alcoholic Hepatitis With Corticoids Plus N Acetyl Cysteine Versus Corticoids Alone (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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