Acetium

Acetium is a specialized therapeutic product developed by Biohit Oyj designed to neutralize acetaldehyde, a known Group 1 carcinogen, within the gastrointestinal tract and oral cavity. The formulation contains L-cysteine, a natural amino acid, which is released in a sustained manner to react with acetaldehyde produced by microbes from alcohol or present in saliva from tobacco use. This chemical reaction converts acetaldehyde into a harmless compound, 2-methylthiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid, thereby preventing DNA damage and reducing the risk of carcinogenesis. Acetium is primarily indicated for individuals with achlorhydria (low or no stomach acid), such as those suffering from atrophic gastritis or long-term users of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), as these conditions facilitate the microbial production of acetaldehyde in the stomach. It is officially classified as a Class IIa medical device in the European Union.

Brand names

Acetium

Other names

L-cysteine slow-release