S-(Carboxymethyl)-L-cysteine, widely known as Carbocysteine, is a high-performance cysteine derivative specifically engineered for animal health. As a potent mucoregulator and antioxidant, it provides a sophisticated approach to respiratory care by modulating mucus secretion and reducing sputum viscosity, making it an essential additive for livestock, poultry, and companion animals facing chronic respiratory challenges.
Unlike traditional mucolytics, S-(Carboxymethyl)-L-cysteine works through a regulatory mechanism that enhances the body's natural defenses. By increasing intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, it offers comprehensive protection against oxidative stress, ammonia exposure, and bacterial infections, ensuring optimal growth rates and improved survival in high-density farming environments.
| CAS No. | 2387-59-9 | Molecular Formula | C₅H₉NO₄S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 179.19 | EINECS NO. | 219-193-9 |
| Chemical Class | Cysteine Derivative | Primary Role | Mucoregulator / Antioxidant |
| Target Species | Poultry, Swine, Pets, Aqua | Action Mechanism | Mucus Regulation & GSH Synthesis |
| Application | Feed & Drinking Water | Safety Profile | High / Low GI Side Effects |
Regulates airway mucus and reduces viscosity to combat pneumonia and chronic bronchitis in pets and livestock.
Provides long-term regulatory support for chronic conditions, ensuring stable respiratory health over time.
Protects poultry and aquaculture from ammonia, dust, and high-density stress via GSH enhancement.
Strengthens mucosal immunity and may enhance the efficacy of porcine respiratory disease vaccines.
Demonstrates significantly fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to Acetylcysteine (NAC).
Proven to improve broiler weight gain by 5–8% by reducing ammonia-induced respiratory lesions.

Seamlessly blend into broiler or aquaculture feed at precise 50-300 mg/kg ratios.
Optimized administration via drinking water or oral dosing for pets and livestock.
Deploy during transport or environmental changes to mitigate oxidative damage.
Monitor cough frequency and lesion reduction in chronic respiratory management.
Combine with NAC to address both acute and chronic respiratory challenges.
Ensure adherence to Veterinary Drug Administration Regulations and local EU guidelines.
| Feature | S-(Carboxymethyl)-L-cysteine | Acetylcysteine (NAC) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Mucus Regulation (Indirect) | Disulfide Cleavage (Direct) |
| Onset Speed | Sustained / Slower | Rapid / Immediate |
| Primary Goal | Chronic Care & Prevention | Acute Poisoning & Obstruction |
| GI Safety | High / Gentle | Moderate / Risk of Vomiting |
| Livestock ROI | Higher Weight Gain (5-8%) | Fast Symptom Relief |
S-(Carboxymethyl)-L-cysteine acts as a mucoregulator that modulates mucus production and enhances GSH levels for long-term health, whereas NAC directly breaks down mucus for rapid, acute relief.
By reducing respiratory lesions caused by ammonia and dust, it allows for better oxygen intake and reduced stress, leading to an observed weight gain increase of 5–8% in broilers.
Yes, it has a higher safety profile with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to other mucolytics, making it ideal for chronic bronchitis management in dogs and cats.
For aquaculture, a feed supplementation of 200–300 mg/kg is typically used to mitigate oxidative damage during transport or poor water quality conditions.
It is advised to avoid concurrent use with highly acidic agents (such as Vitamin C) or certain antibiotics like tetracyclines to ensure maximum efficacy.
Preliminary in vitro studies suggest it may inhibit the replication of certain strains like the avian influenza virus (H9N2), although further field validation is ongoing.