Acetazolamide

Information About Acetazolamide

Uses of Acetazolamide

Acetazolamide is commonly used to treat glaucoma, epilepsy, oedema and prophylaxis for high-altitude disorder.

How Acetazolamide Works

Acetazolamide works by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase in the kidney and central nervous system thus causing excretion of water and inhibit excessive electrical discharge respectively.

Side Effects of Acetazolamide

Electrolyte imbalance, Impaired mental concentration, Suicidal ideation, Ringing of the ears, Fever, Malaise, Jaundice, Thirst, Headache, Myopia

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Acetazolamide Related Warnings

Alcohol Safe

Acetazolamide is generally safe to be consumed with alcohol.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies showed definite toxicity to the fetal development but with limited studies on human showed no adverse effect recorded to the development of the fetus. Caution should be taken if it is to be used during pregnancy and should be avoided during first trimester.

Lactation Safe If Prescribed

Acetazolamide has been detected in low quantity in breastmilk. It is postulated that the small amount of Acetazolamide in the breastmilk may not affect the baby. Extra precaution should be taken if the mother is taking Acetazolamide and breastfeeding.

Driving Not advisable

Acetazolamide is not advisable to be taken before driving due to potential side effects such as myopia and headache.

Kidney High Risk

Acetazolamide should be used with caution in mild and moderate kidney disease with dosage adjustment. It is contraindicated in severe renal impairment.

Liver High Risk

Acetazolamide should be used with caution in mild and moderate hepatic impairment. It is severely contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment.