Products
Acetazolamide is commercially available in tablet form and as an injectable (Diamox, Glaupax). It has been approved in many countries since 1955.
Structure and properties
Acetazolamide (C4H6N4O3S2, Mr = 222.2 g/mol) exists as a white crystalline powder that is very sparingly soluble in water. The sodium salt acetazolamide sodium, which is present in the injection preparation, is more soluble in water. Acetazolamide is a sulfonamide and a thiadiazole acetamide.
Effects
Acetazolamide (ATC S01EC01) has diuretic properties and lowers elevated intraocular pressure. Its effects are due to inhibition of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase. It enhances renal excretion of bicarbonate, sodium, and potassium. At the eye, it reduces aqueous humor formation, thereby lowering pressure.
Indications
- Chronic open-angle glaucoma
- Oedema of various causes, cerebral edema
- Respiratory weakness with respiratory acidosis.
- Epilepsy
- Inflammation of the pancreas, pancreatic fistulas.
- Prevention of altitude sickness
Dosage
According to the professional information.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity (also to sulfonamides).
- Low sodium level
- Deep potassium level
- Severe kidney and liver disease
- Adrenocortical insufficiency
- Hyperchloremic acidosis
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Potential drug-drug interactions have been described with probenecid, sulfinpyrazone, sulfonylureas, barbiturates, methotrexate, phenytoin, lithium, and acetylsalicylic acid.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include fatigue, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, taste disturbances, diarrhea, vomiting, crampy symptoms, tarry stools, sensory disturbances (numbness, tingling), feeling hot, and decrease in performance.
