Acetazolamide

FDC Ltd ,

Micro Labs Ltd

Iopar 250mg Capsule SR ,

Acetamide 250mg Tablet

Altitude Sickness ,

Glaucoma

DRUG STATUS

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Approvals

US. FDA / uk mhra / ema / pdma

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Essential Medicine

WHO / India

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Use in Pregnancy

Not Advised / Caution

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Pharmaceutical Class

ama / pdma

Video Thumbnail

Summary

  • Acetazolamide is used to treat conditions like glaucoma, epilepsy, altitude sickness, and certain types of edema. It's also used for correcting pH imbalances in metabolic alkalosis and treating or preventing kidney stones in some cases of hypercalciuria.

  • Acetazolamide works by inhibiting an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase. This reduces the production of fluid in the eye, lowering intraocular pressure. It also decreases bicarbonate in the blood, aiding in the correction of fluid imbalances.

  • For adults, the usual dosage for glaucoma is 250 mg twice a day. For altitude sickness, 250 mg every 8 to 12 hours is recommended. It can be taken with or without food.

  • Common side effects include dizziness, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, fatigue, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. Severe effects can include allergic reactions, kidney stones, electrolyte imbalances, blood disorders, liver issues, severe skin reactions or metabolic acidosis.

  • Acetazolamide should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease or liver dysfunction. It should not be used by individuals with certain types of glaucoma or those with sulfa drug allergies. It's also not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless necessary.

Indications and Purpose

How does Acetazolamide work?

Acetazolamide works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which is involved in the production of bicarbonate. By reducing bicarbonate levels, it leads to a decrease in the amount of fluid produced in the body, particularly in the eyes and kidneys. This helps lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma, reduces fluid retention in conditions like edema, and helps prevent altitude sickness by adjusting the acid-base balance in the blood.

 

 

How does Acetazolamide work?

Acetazolamide works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which is involved in the production of bicarbonate. By reducing bicarbonate levels, it leads to a decrease in the amount of fluid produced in the body, particularly in the eyes and kidneys. This helps lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma, reduces fluid retention in conditions like edema, and helps prevent altitude sickness by adjusting the acid-base balance in the blood.

 

 

How does Acetazolamide work?

Acetazolamide works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which is involved in the production of bicarbonate. By reducing bicarbonate levels, it leads to a decrease in the amount of fluid produced in the body, particularly in the eyes and kidneys. This helps lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma, reduces fluid retention in conditions like edema, and helps prevent altitude sickness by adjusting the acid-base balance in the blood.

 

 

How does one know if Acetazolamide is working?

The benefit of Acetazolamide is evaluated through monitoring specific symptoms and clinical markers. For glaucoma, its effectiveness is checked by measuring intraocular pressure. In the case of altitude sickness, symptom relief (e.g., headache, nausea) is assessed. For seizures and fluid retention, seizure frequency and changes in fluid balance or edema are monitored, typically through medical exams and diagnostic tests.

 

 

How does one know if Acetazolamide is working?

The benefit of Acetazolamide is evaluated through monitoring specific symptoms and clinical markers. For glaucoma, its effectiveness is checked by measuring intraocular pressure. In the case of altitude sickness, symptom relief (e.g., headache, nausea) is assessed. For seizures and fluid retention, seizure frequency and changes in fluid balance or edema are monitored, typically through medical exams and diagnostic tests.

 

 

How does one know if Acetazolamide is working?

The benefit of Acetazolamide is evaluated through monitoring specific symptoms and clinical markers. For glaucoma, its effectiveness is checked by measuring intraocular pressure. In the case of altitude sickness, symptom relief (e.g., headache, nausea) is assessed. For seizures and fluid retention, seizure frequency and changes in fluid balance or edema are monitored, typically through medical exams and diagnostic tests.

 

 

Is Acetazolamide effective?

Evidence supporting the effectiveness of Acetazolamide includes clinical trials showing its ability to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and nausea. Studies also demonstrate its role in managing fluid retention in conditions like edema, as well as in reducing the frequency of seizures in some forms of epilepsy.

 

 

Is Acetazolamide effective?

Evidence supporting the effectiveness of Acetazolamide includes clinical trials showing its ability to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and nausea. Studies also demonstrate its role in managing fluid retention in conditions like edema, as well as in reducing the frequency of seizures in some forms of epilepsy.

 

 

Is Acetazolamide effective?

Evidence supporting the effectiveness of Acetazolamide includes clinical trials showing its ability to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and nausea. Studies also demonstrate its role in managing fluid retention in conditions like edema, as well as in reducing the frequency of seizures in some forms of epilepsy.

 

 

What is Acetazolamide used for?

Acetazolamide is indicated for the treatment of several conditions, including:

  1. Glaucoma (to reduce intraocular pressure)
  2. Edema (fluid retention) associated with heart failure or other conditions
  3. Epilepsy (as an adjunctive therapy for seizures)
  4. Altitude sickness (to prevent or treat symptoms)
  5. Metabolic alkalosis (to correct pH imbalances)
  6. Hypercalciuria (to treat calcium stones or prevent kidney stones in some cases)

What is Acetazolamide used for?

Acetazolamide is indicated for the treatment of several conditions, including:

  1. Glaucoma (to reduce intraocular pressure)
  2. Edema (fluid retention) associated with heart failure or other conditions
  3. Epilepsy (as an adjunctive therapy for seizures)
  4. Altitude sickness (to prevent or treat symptoms)
  5. Metabolic alkalosis (to correct pH imbalances)
  6. Hypercalciuria (to treat calcium stones or prevent kidney stones in some cases)

What is Acetazolamide used for?

Acetazolamide is indicated for the treatment of several conditions, including:

  1. Glaucoma (to reduce intraocular pressure)
  2. Edema (fluid retention) associated with heart failure or other conditions
  3. Epilepsy (as an adjunctive therapy for seizures)
  4. Altitude sickness (to prevent or treat symptoms)
  5. Metabolic alkalosis (to correct pH imbalances)
  6. Hypercalciuria (to treat calcium stones or prevent kidney stones in some cases)

Directions for Use

How do I take Acetazolamide?

Acetazolamide can be taken with or without food, depending on your preference. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. There are no specific food restrictions, but you should avoid excessive salt or potassium-rich foods as acetazolamide can alter electrolyte balance. It's important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if using for altitude sickness or diuresis.

 

 

How do I take Acetazolamide?

Acetazolamide can be taken with or without food, depending on your preference. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. There are no specific food restrictions, but you should avoid excessive salt or potassium-rich foods as acetazolamide can alter electrolyte balance. It's important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if using for altitude sickness or diuresis.

 

 

How do I take Acetazolamide?

Acetazolamide can be taken with or without food, depending on your preference. However, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset. There are no specific food restrictions, but you should avoid excessive salt or potassium-rich foods as acetazolamide can alter electrolyte balance. It's important to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if using for altitude sickness or diuresis.

 

 

How long does it take for Acetazolamide to start working?

Acetazolamide usually starts working within a few hours of taking it, especially for conditions like altitude sickness. For other uses, such as reducing fluid buildup or controlling seizures, its effects may take a few days to become more noticeable. The timing can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual response.

 

 

How long does it take for Acetazolamide to start working?

Acetazolamide usually starts working within a few hours of taking it, especially for conditions like altitude sickness. For other uses, such as reducing fluid buildup or controlling seizures, its effects may take a few days to become more noticeable. The timing can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual response.

 

 

How long does it take for Acetazolamide to start working?

Acetazolamide usually starts working within a few hours of taking it, especially for conditions like altitude sickness. For other uses, such as reducing fluid buildup or controlling seizures, its effects may take a few days to become more noticeable. The timing can vary depending on the condition being treated and individual response.

 

 

How should I dispose of Acetazolamide?

If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of the medicines properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.

How should I dispose of Acetazolamide?

If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of the medicines properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.

How should I dispose of Acetazolamide?

If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of the medicines properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.

How should I store Acetazolamide?

Acetazolamide should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. It should be kept in a tightly closed container to protect it from environmental factors that could affect its potency. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as the humidity can reduce its effectiveness. Always check the expiration date before use.

 

 

How should I store Acetazolamide?

Acetazolamide should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. It should be kept in a tightly closed container to protect it from environmental factors that could affect its potency. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as the humidity can reduce its effectiveness. Always check the expiration date before use.

 

 

How should I store Acetazolamide?

Acetazolamide should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. It should be kept in a tightly closed container to protect it from environmental factors that could affect its potency. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as the humidity can reduce its effectiveness. Always check the expiration date before use.

 

 

What are the consequences to stopping Acetazolamide?

Stopping Acetazolamide suddenly can lead to a return of the condition it was treating, such as fluid retention, glaucoma symptoms, or seizures. For example, in cases of altitude sickness, stopping early may cause symptoms to return. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before discontinuing to avoid complications and to determine the best approach for stopping the medication.

 

 

What are the consequences to stopping Acetazolamide?

Stopping Acetazolamide suddenly can lead to a return of the condition it was treating, such as fluid retention, glaucoma symptoms, or seizures. For example, in cases of altitude sickness, stopping early may cause symptoms to return. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before discontinuing to avoid complications and to determine the best approach for stopping the medication.

 

 

What are the consequences to stopping Acetazolamide?

Stopping Acetazolamide suddenly can lead to a return of the condition it was treating, such as fluid retention, glaucoma symptoms, or seizures. For example, in cases of altitude sickness, stopping early may cause symptoms to return. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before discontinuing to avoid complications and to determine the best approach for stopping the medication.

 

 

What is Acetazolamide’s dose and duration?

The usual daily dosage of acetazolamide for adults varies depending on the condition being treated. For glaucoma, 250 mg twice a day is common, while for altitude sickness, 250 mg every 8 to 12 hours is recommended. It is typically taken with or without food, and patients should follow the prescribed dosage carefully. Dosing may be adjusted based on response and side effects.

 

 

What is Acetazolamide’s dose and duration?

The usual daily dosage of acetazolamide for adults varies depending on the condition being treated. For glaucoma, 250 mg twice a day is common, while for altitude sickness, 250 mg every 8 to 12 hours is recommended. It is typically taken with or without food, and patients should follow the prescribed dosage carefully. Dosing may be adjusted based on response and side effects.

 

 

What is Acetazolamide’s dose and duration?

The usual daily dosage of acetazolamide for adults varies depending on the condition being treated. For glaucoma, 250 mg twice a day is common, while for altitude sickness, 250 mg every 8 to 12 hours is recommended. It is typically taken with or without food, and patients should follow the prescribed dosage carefully. Dosing may be adjusted based on response and side effects.

 

 

What should I do if I miss a dose of Acetazolamide?

If you forget to take one or more doses: take your next dose at the normal time and in the normal amount. Do not take any more than your doctor prescribed.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Acetazolamide?

If you forget to take one or more doses: take your next dose at the normal time and in the normal amount. Do not take any more than your doctor prescribed.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Acetazolamide?

If you forget to take one or more doses: take your next dose at the normal time and in the normal amount. Do not take any more than your doctor prescribed.

Warnings and Precautions

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Acetazolamide is excreted in breast milk, and its effects on a nursing infant are not well-studied. Due to potential risks such as acid-base disturbances or electrolyte imbalances, it is generally advised to avoid acetazolamide during breastfeeding, particularly in the newborn or preterm infants. If the medication is essential, monitoring of the infant is recommended.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Acetazolamide is excreted in breast milk, and its effects on a nursing infant are not well-studied. Due to potential risks such as acid-base disturbances or electrolyte imbalances, it is generally advised to avoid acetazolamide during breastfeeding, particularly in the newborn or preterm infants. If the medication is essential, monitoring of the infant is recommended.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Acetazolamide is excreted in breast milk, and its effects on a nursing infant are not well-studied. Due to potential risks such as acid-base disturbances or electrolyte imbalances, it is generally advised to avoid acetazolamide during breastfeeding, particularly in the newborn or preterm infants. If the medication is essential, monitoring of the infant is recommended.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while pregnant?

Acetazolamide is classified as a Category C drug for pregnancy. This means that animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, and there is insufficient data in humans to determine safety. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the risks, especially for conditions where other treatments are not suitable. It is not recommended during the first trimester unless necessary.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while pregnant?

Acetazolamide is classified as a Category C drug for pregnancy. This means that animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, and there is insufficient data in humans to determine safety. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the risks, especially for conditions where other treatments are not suitable. It is not recommended during the first trimester unless necessary.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while pregnant?

Acetazolamide is classified as a Category C drug for pregnancy. This means that animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, and there is insufficient data in humans to determine safety. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the risks, especially for conditions where other treatments are not suitable. It is not recommended during the first trimester unless necessary.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while trying to conceive?

There is limited data on the effect of acetazolamide on fertility. However, animal studies have suggested that acetazolamide may affect fertility in both males and females due to its potential impact on electrolyte balance and acid-base status. While it is not well-documented in humans, caution is advised, and it should be used only when necessary in individuals of reproductive age.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while trying to conceive?

There is limited data on the effect of acetazolamide on fertility. However, animal studies have suggested that acetazolamide may affect fertility in both males and females due to its potential impact on electrolyte balance and acid-base status. While it is not well-documented in humans, caution is advised, and it should be used only when necessary in individuals of reproductive age.

 

 

Can Acetazolamide be taken safely while trying to conceive?

There is limited data on the effect of acetazolamide on fertility. However, animal studies have suggested that acetazolamide may affect fertility in both males and females due to its potential impact on electrolyte balance and acid-base status. While it is not well-documented in humans, caution is advised, and it should be used only when necessary in individuals of reproductive age.

 

 

Can I take Acetazolamide with other prescription drugs?

Significant prescription drug interactions with Acetazolamide include:

  1. Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) – may increase risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  2. Aspirin – can increase acetazolamide toxicity.
  3. Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) – may alter drug levels.
  4. Lithium – increases lithium toxicity risk.
  5. Corticosteroids – may enhance potassium loss,

 

Can I take Acetazolamide with other prescription drugs?

Significant prescription drug interactions with Acetazolamide include:

  1. Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) – may increase risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  2. Aspirin – can increase acetazolamide toxicity.
  3. Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) – may alter drug levels.
  4. Lithium – increases lithium toxicity risk.
  5. Corticosteroids – may enhance potassium loss,

 

Can I take Acetazolamide with other prescription drugs?

Significant prescription drug interactions with Acetazolamide include:

  1. Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) – may increase risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
  2. Aspirin – can increase acetazolamide toxicity.
  3. Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine) – may alter drug levels.
  4. Lithium – increases lithium toxicity risk.
  5. Corticosteroids – may enhance potassium loss,

 

Can I take Acetazolamide with vitamins or supplements?

The most significant interactions with vitamins or supplements for Acetazolamide include:

  1. Potassium supplements – Acetazolamide can cause potassium depletion, and taking potassium supplements may help counteract this effect, but should be monitored to avoid excess potassium.
  2. Folic acid – Chronic use of acetazolamide may interfere with folate metabolism, possibly leading to folic acid deficiency.
  3. Vitamin D – Acetazolamide may affect calcium balance, so vitamin D levels should be monitored to avoid complications related to calcium metabolism.

Can I take Acetazolamide with vitamins or supplements?

The most significant interactions with vitamins or supplements for Acetazolamide include:

  1. Potassium supplements – Acetazolamide can cause potassium depletion, and taking potassium supplements may help counteract this effect, but should be monitored to avoid excess potassium.
  2. Folic acid – Chronic use of acetazolamide may interfere with folate metabolism, possibly leading to folic acid deficiency.
  3. Vitamin D – Acetazolamide may affect calcium balance, so vitamin D levels should be monitored to avoid complications related to calcium metabolism.

Can I take Acetazolamide with vitamins or supplements?

The most significant interactions with vitamins or supplements for Acetazolamide include:

  1. Potassium supplements – Acetazolamide can cause potassium depletion, and taking potassium supplements may help counteract this effect, but should be monitored to avoid excess potassium.
  2. Folic acid – Chronic use of acetazolamide may interfere with folate metabolism, possibly leading to folic acid deficiency.
  3. Vitamin D – Acetazolamide may affect calcium balance, so vitamin D levels should be monitored to avoid complications related to calcium metabolism.

What are Acetazolamide possible harms and risks?

Common side effects of Acetazolamide include dizziness, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, fatigue, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. Significant adverse effects can include severe allergic reactions, kidney stones, electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium), blood disorders, and liver issues. Rarely, it may cause severe skin reactions or metabolic acidosis, especially in prolonged use.

 

 

What are Acetazolamide possible harms and risks?

Common side effects of Acetazolamide include dizziness, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, fatigue, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. Significant adverse effects can include severe allergic reactions, kidney stones, electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium), blood disorders, and liver issues. Rarely, it may cause severe skin reactions or metabolic acidosis, especially in prolonged use.

 

 

What are Acetazolamide possible harms and risks?

Common side effects of Acetazolamide include dizziness, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, fatigue, frequent urination, and loss of appetite. Significant adverse effects can include severe allergic reactions, kidney stones, electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium), blood disorders, and liver issues. Rarely, it may cause severe skin reactions or metabolic acidosis, especially in prolonged use.

 

 

Who should avoid taking Acetazolamide?

Warnings and contraindications for Acetazolamide include:

  1. Kidney disease or liver dysfunction – may worsen conditions.
  2. Electrolyte imbalances – risk of low potassium or sodium.
  3. Allergic reactions – including sulfa drug allergies.
  4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding – use only if necessary, as it may harm the fetus or infant.
  5. Glaucoma – contraindicated for certain types of glaucoma.
    Consult a doctor before use.

 

 

Who should avoid taking Acetazolamide?

Warnings and contraindications for Acetazolamide include:

  1. Kidney disease or liver dysfunction – may worsen conditions.
  2. Electrolyte imbalances – risk of low potassium or sodium.
  3. Allergic reactions – including sulfa drug allergies.
  4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding – use only if necessary, as it may harm the fetus or infant.
  5. Glaucoma – contraindicated for certain types of glaucoma.
    Consult a doctor before use.

 

 

Who should avoid taking Acetazolamide?

Warnings and contraindications for Acetazolamide include:

  1. Kidney disease or liver dysfunction – may worsen conditions.
  2. Electrolyte imbalances – risk of low potassium or sodium.
  3. Allergic reactions – including sulfa drug allergies.
  4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding – use only if necessary, as it may harm the fetus or infant.
  5. Glaucoma – contraindicated for certain types of glaucoma.
    Consult a doctor before use.

 

 

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