Acetazolamide sodium

What is Acetazolamide sodium?

Acetazolamide controls fluid secretion. It is used in the treatment of glaucoma (excessive pressure in the eyes), epilepsy (for both brief and unlocalized seizures), and fluid retention due to congestive heart failure or drugs. It is also used to prevent or relieve the symptoms of acute mountain sickness in climbers attempting a rapid climb and those who feel sick even though they are making a gradual climb.

What is the most important information I should know about Acetazolamide sodium?

This drug is considered to be a sulfa drug because of its chemical properties. Although rare, severe reactions have been reported with sulfa drugs. If you develop a rash, bruises, sore throat, or fever contact your doctor immediately.

Who should not take Acetazolamide sodium?

Your doctor will not prescribe this medication for you if your sodium or potassium levels are low, or if you have kidney or liver disease, including cirrhosis. Acetazolamide should not be used as a long-term treatment for the type of glaucoma called chronic noncongestive angle-closure glaucoma.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Acetazolamide sodium?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have emphysema or other breathing disorders, or take high doses of aspirin. The effects of combining acetazolamide with aspirin can range from loss of appetite, sluggishness, and rapid breathing to unresponsiveness; the combination can be fatal.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

This medication is available in both oral and injectable form. Dosages below are for the oral form only.

Glaucoma

Adults: This medication is used as an addition to regular glaucoma treatment. Dosages for open-angle glaucoma range from 250 milligrams to 1 gram per 24 hours in 2 or more smaller doses. Your doctor will supervise your dosage and watch the effect of this medication carefully if you are using it for glaucoma. In secondary glaucoma and before surgery in acute congestive (closed-angle) glaucoma, the usual dosage is 250 milligrams every 4 hours or, in some cases, 250 milligrams twice a day. Some people may take 500 milligrams to start, and then 125 or 250 milligrams every 4 hours. The injectable form of this drug is occasionally used in acute cases.

The usual dosage of the sustained-release capsules is 1 capsule (500 milligrams) twice a day, usually in the morning and evening.

Your doctor may adjust the dosage, as needed.

Epilepsy

Adults: The daily dosage is 8 to 30 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight in 2 or more doses. Typical dosage may range from 375 to 1,000 milligrams per day. Your doctor will adjust the dosage to suit your needs; acetazolamide can be used with other anticonvulsant medication.

Congestive Heart Failure

Adults: The usual starting dosage to reduce fluid retention in people with congestive heart failure is 250 milligrams to 375 milligrams per day or 5 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight, taken in the morning. Acetazolamide works best when it is taken every other day—or 2 days on, 1 day off—for this condition.

Edema Due to Medication

Adults: The usual dose is 250 milligrams to 375 milligrams daily for 1 or 2 days, alternating with a day of rest.

Acute Mountain Sickness

Adults: The usual dose is 500 milligrams to 1,000 milligrams a day in 2 or more doses, using either tablets or sustained-release capsules. Doses of this medication are often begun 1 or 2 days before attempting to reach high altitudes.

How should I take Acetazolamide sodium?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are taking acetazolamide to help in rapid ascent of a mountain, you must still come down promptly if you show signs of severe mountain sickness.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Acetazolamide sodium?

If acetazolamide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining acetazolamide with the following: amitriptyline, amphetamines such as dextroamphetamine, aspirin, cyclosporine, lithium, methenamine, oral diabetes drugs such as glyburide, and quinidine.

What are the possible side effects of Acetazolamide sodium?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking acetazolamide.

Side effects may include: change in taste, diarrhea, increase in amount or frequency of urination, loss of appetite, nausea, ringing in the ears, tingling or pins and needles in hands or feet, vomiting

Can I receive Acetazolamide sodium if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of acetazolamide during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Acetazolamide may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Consult your doctor if you plan on breastfeeding.

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

If you miss a dose of this drug, skip it. Do not take an extra dose to make up for missed doses.

How should I store Acetazolamide sodium?

Store at room temperature.