Acetazolamide

Dosage Forms Available

• Acetazolamide can be taken orally (tablets).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is intended for adults only.

Contraindications

• Acetazolamide is contraindicated in people with kidney or liver dysfunction. Patients with low blood levels of sodium and/or potassium should not use this medicine. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or severe hepatic insufficiency should avoid this medication.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Acetazolamide may interact with other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (e.g., methazolamide, brinzolamide), and antiepileptic medicines (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine), cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin) and diuretics (e.g., furosemide).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Acetazolamide may cause electrolyte imbalances, severe metabolic acidosis, and central nervous system effects like confusion, drowsiness, seizures or coma. If you observe these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

• If you miss a dose of Acetazolamide, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not double up the doses at the same time to make up for the missed dose.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Fatigue and drowsiness can be managed by taking rest between activities.

• Nausea and vomiting can be managed by taking the medicine after meals.

• Increased urination can be managed by adjusting the timing of the medication so that it does not interfere with your sleep.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Acetazolamide may make you drowsy or dizzy. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Acetazolamide is not recommended for use in pregnant and lactating women unless prescribed by the doctor. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or lactation.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Acetazolamide should be used cautiously in patients with kidney, liver or lung disease. Patients with a history of kidney stones should also exercise caution when taking this medicine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Stay hydrated to counteract the diuretic effect (increased urination) of Acetazolamide.

• If you're using Acetazolamide for altitude sickness, start the medication 1-2 days before ascent and ascend slowly.

• Always wear sunscreen and protective clothing, as Acetazolamide can increase skin's sensitivity to sunlight.