ER Vets: Should You Really Use N-Acetylcysteine and Vitamin K in Every Liver Failure Case?

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If you're new to my channel, I am Igor Yankin, a small animal emergency and critical care specialist based in Texas.

You might know me as the founder of VetEmCrit.com, where I’ve spent the last several years creating evidence-based tools, case discussions, and training for veterinarians working on the front lines of emergency and critical care.

My story in ECC started back in 2010 when I worked full-time ER shifts. After five intense years, I completed a small animal rotating internship at Oregon State University, followed by an ECC residency at the University of Florida. Since 2019, I’ve been practicing as a veterinary criticalist.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that what most ER vets and techs need isn’t just more information — it’s a way to connect, discuss real cases, and keep growing together without judgment. That realization inspired me to create something new — a space where emergency and critical care professionals can come together, learn, and support each other in a meaningful way.

That space is now called the VetEmCrit Academy — a growing community for those who want to stay sharp, confident, and connected in ECC practice.

If you’re ready to see what’s inside and how it works, learn more by going to https://academy.vetemcrit.com/join

Today’s Topic: The use of NAC and Vitamin K in managing acute liver failure in dogs and cats. This video delves into the current veterinary guidelines, key research findings, and dosing protocols for both NAC and Vitamin K in cases of acute liver failure. We’ll also cover the controversies surrounding these treatments.

What You’ll Learn:
The role of N Acetylcysteine (NAC) in treating acetaminophen and non-acetaminophen induced liver failure.
Administration protocols for NAC in dogs and cats.
The role and efficacy of Vitamin K in acute liver failure, especially in patients with cholestasis.
Veterinary specific insights on using NAC and Vitamin K for optimal management.
Potential side effects and precautions to consider when administering these treatments.

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00:00 Introduction to Acute Liver Failure Management
00:37 Understanding N Acetylcysteine (NAC)
01:20 NAC in Human Medicine
04:38 NAC in Veterinary Medicine
08:16 Clinical Takeaways for NAC
09:32 Introduction to Vitamin K
09:39 Vitamin K in Human Medicine
12:45 Vitamin K in Veterinary Medicine
13:18 Clinical Takeaways for Vitamin K
14:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts