[N-acetylcysteine in septic shock].

AIM

To focus on the various studies evaluating the effects of Nacetylcysteine in septic shock

METHODS

Main references obtained from the medical database Medline using the keywords: N-acetylcysteine; septic shock, free radicals.

RESULTS

Septic shock remains the leading cause of mortality in intensive care units. The progressive knowledge of the pathophysiology of septic shock, underline the production of free radicals and their cellular and microcirculatory effects. The Nacetylcysteine used mainly in paracetamol poisoning, has properties to control free radicals. The explosion of free radicals in septic shock has led to multiple studies assessing the role of N-acetylcysteine as an anti radical, and for its anti inflammatory action.

CONCLUSION

NAC seems to play an important role in septic shock to control free radicals and the inflammatory response. But these results remain contradictory. Some larger and more standardized studies should allow to evaluate the actual effects of NAC in septic shock.