Rheunac is an effervescent tablet that dissolves in water, making it suitable for both adults and children from the age of six and older. It is sold over-the-counter and does not require a doctor’s prescription. The tablets contain 200 mg of n-acetylcysteine (NAC), a member of the mucolytic drug class. 

NAC works to loosen thick mucus in the chest. Accumulation of sticky mucus in the airways can come from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), caused by diseases like emphysema, bronchitis, cystic fibrosis and pneumonia, as well as viral or bacterial infections such as influenza, COVID-19 and streptococcus or smoking and long-term exposure to toxic gasses or small particles. 

NAC also acts as a precursor to glutathione, an antioxidant that removes free radicals from the body and so assists in the process of detoxification. Glutathione helps the liver maintain a good oxidative/antioxidative balance necessary for good health. Benefits of detoxification include rapid recovery from heavy muscle exertion,and produces  improvements in cognitive function.

Another important therapeutic use of NAC is in the treatment of mood disorders. It has been used in treating depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); for treating addiction to cocaine, marijuana, and other substances and to reduce withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit smoking.

NAC is currently being investigated for its potential to treat autism, Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Dosage

The dosage for treatment of mucus should be adjusted according to your age, weight and symptoms. The normal dose is one tablet up to twice each day, fully dissolved in about 8 oz (200 ml) of water. It should be taken on an empty stomach about a half hour before or two hours after eating.

Other therapies may require higher doses, but these should only be taken under the advice of a healthcare professional.

Pregnant women or mothers who are breastfeeding should consult with a physician before starting to take Rheunac.