Uses

Indicated as adjunctive treatment for edema due to congestive heart failure, drug-induced edema, centrencephalic epilepsies, and various forms of glaucoma. Also used for prevention and amelioration of acute mountain sickness.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in hypersensitivity to acetazolamide or sulfonamides, severe renal or hepatic impairment, hyponatremia, hypokalemia, adrenal insufficiency, and hepatic cirrhosis.

Side effects

Common effects include paresthesia, polyuria, metabolic acidosis, electrolyte disturbances, nausea, and drowsiness. Rare but serious reactions include aplastic anemia, agranulocytosis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and fulminant hepatic necrosis.

Warnings

Fatalities have occurred due to severe sulfonamide reactions including toxic epidermal necrolysis and aplastic anemia; discontinue at first sign of rash or blood dyscrasia. Monitor electrolytes and acid-base balance during therapy. Use with caution in patients with respiratory disease.

How it works

Acetazolamide is a potent, reversible carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Inhibition of this enzyme in the kidney reduces reabsorption of bicarbonate, sodium, and water, promoting diuresis. In the eye, it reduces aqueous humor production and lowers intraocular pressure. In the brain, it suppresses abnormal neuronal discharge.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.