What is N-acetylcysteine primarily used for in medical treatment?

N-acetylcysteine is primarily utilized in medical treatment to prevent contrast-induced nephropathy, especially in high-risk patients undergoing procedures that require contrast media. Contrast-induced nephropathy can occur when the kidneys are exposed to certain contrast agents used in imaging studies, leading to increased serum creatinine levels and possible renal impairment. N-acetylcysteine functions as a mucolytic agent, but its antioxidant properties help protect renal tissues from oxidative stress associated with contrast exposure. In clinical settings, administering N-acetylcysteine before contrast imaging procedures has been shown to mitigate this risk, particularly in patients with pre-existing kidney disease or other risk factors.

Other uses mentioned, such as pain relief, treatment of bacterial infections, or being an antibiotic, do not align with N-acetylcysteine's established therapeutic applications, reinforcing its primary role in nephroprotection.