N-Acetylcysteine provides the cysteine needed for glutathione synthesis and also increases serum sulfate levels, which supplies sulfate for conjugation. Ascorbic acid is used to change methemoglobin to reduced hemoglobin. Steroids should not be given because they have been reported to cause a dose-dependent increase in mortality. Antihistamines have been reported to be contraindicated. Dosages are not well established in cats for these drugs, and these should not be used without express consent from a veterinarian.
Some keratolytic products contain salicylates.
Mechanism of action Acetylsalicylic acid inhibits cyclooxygenase, which then inhibits production of certain prostaglandins, including protective prostaglandins of the E series. High doses are also known to uncouple' oxidative phosphorylation and may cause hyperglycemia and glycosuria. The vomitus may be blood-tinged from GI ulceration. Gastrointestinal ulceration or perforation may be seen after the administration of repeated doses over several days' duration. Two tablespoons of PeptoBismol contain the salicylate equivalent of one 5-grain aspirin tablet.