Which medication is used for acetaminophen toxicity?

N-acetylcysteine is the antidote for acetaminophen toxicity and works by replenishing glutathione levels, which are depleted when acetaminophen is taken in excessive doses. When acetaminophen is metabolized, it produces a toxic metabolite that can lead to hepatotoxicity. N-acetylcysteine acts to counteract this by helping the liver neutralize the toxic metabolite and assists in detoxifying harmful substances.

This medication is most effective when administered soon after the overdose, ideally within 8 to 10 hours but can still be beneficial if given later. Patients may also be given activated charcoal in some cases to reduce the absorption of acetaminophen if they present soon after the ingestion, but it does not treat the toxicity itself.

The other options listed do not address acetaminophen toxicity directly. Atropine is primarily an anticholinergic medication used for various conditions, including bradycardia and as a pre-anesthetic medication. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist used in cases of benzodiazepine overdose. Each of these medications serves a specific purpose but is not effective in managing acetaminophen toxicity.