What is the antidote for Acetaminophen toxicity?

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is recognized as the specific antidote for acetaminophen toxicity. When acetaminophen is ingested in amounts exceeding therapeutic levels, it can lead to the depletion of glutathione in the liver, resulting in the accumulation of toxic metabolites that can cause cellular damage and potentially lead to liver failure. NAC functions by replenishing glutathione levels and facilitating the non-toxic metabolism of acetaminophen.

The administration of NAC is most effective when given within 8 to 10 hours following the overdose, although it can still provide benefits if given later. It can be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the clinical scenario, and it not only acts as an antidote but also has mucolytic properties that can help in other respiratory conditions.

Other options, while they may have roles in different contexts, do not address the specific mechanism of acetaminophen toxicity. For example, activated charcoal is sometimes used to reduce absorption in cases of overdose, but it does not counteract the toxic effects of acetaminophen itself. Atropine is an anticholinergic agent used primarily for bradycardia or to treat organophosphate poisoning, and dopamine is a medication used for shock or certain types