We demonstrate significant interference by Parvolex (acetylcysteine) with the Ag/AgCl method for chloride estimation. A study of four patients who had taken a paracetamol overdose and been treated with Parvolex implied this interference, and an in vitro study confirmed it. The interference was shown to decline upon storage of the serum at a similar rate in both the patient and in vitro studies. Suggested mechanisms for these phenomena are given.
FarahDABoagDMoranFMcIntoshSParacetamol interference with blood glucose analysis: A potentially fatal phenomenon. BMJ1982; 285: 172
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PrescottLFIllingworthRNCritchleyJAJHStewartMJAdamRDProudfootATIntravenous N-acetylcysteine: The treatment of choice for paracetamol poisoning. BMJ1979; 2: 1097–100
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PrescottLFDonovanJWJarvieDRProudfootATThe disposition and kinetics of intravenous N-acetylcysteine in patients with paracetamol overdosage. Eur J Clin Pharmacol1989; 37: 501–6
