Acetazolamide
Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used for selected conditions including glaucoma, altitude illness prevention, raised intracranial pressure and some fluid or seizure disorders.
Key points
- The purpose and monitoring differ substantially between eye, altitude, neurological and fluid-related uses.
- Acetazolamide can alter potassium, sodium and acid-base balance and can promote kidney stones.
- A severe rash, breathing difficulty, confusion or marked weakness needs urgent assessment.
Listings are for comparison and general information; suitability and supply depend on the indication, clinician and pharmacy checks and prescription requirements.
Important safety checks
Kidney and liver disease, electrolyte disorders, pregnancy, breathing problems and previous severe sulfonamide reactions require review. Tingling and taste changes can occur, but persistent weakness, vomiting or confusion may indicate a metabolic problem.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for a spreading or blistering rash, mouth sores, facial swelling, breathing difficulty, severe confusion, fainting, very little urine or sudden visual deterioration.