Question

Why would a primary health care provider prescribe acetylcysteine to a patient who is on pharmacological pain management therapy?

1. Overdose of aspirin
2. Overdose of fentanyl
3. Overdose of morphine
4. Overdose of acetaminophen

Answer 1

Acetylcysteine is prescribed in cases of Overdose of acetaminophen option (d) to prevent or minimize liver damage by replenishing glutathione levels in the liver.

Step-by-step explanation:

A primary health care provider would prescribe acetylcysteine to a patient who is on pharmacological pain management therapy if there is an overdose of acetaminophen option (d). Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is an analgesic and antipyretic medication often used to replace aspirin, particularly when patients need to avoid the side effects associated with aspirin, such as gastric distress or anticoagulant action. However, in cases of overdose, acetaminophen can lead to severe liver damage. Acetylcysteine acts as a hepatoprotective agent by replenishing intracellular levels of glutathione, thus helping to prevent or minimize liver damage.