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Acetazolamide |
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What is Acetazolamide and why is it prescribed? Acetazolamide controls fluid secretion. It is used in the treatment of glaucoma, epilepsy, 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. 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. How should you take Acetazolamide? Follow your doctors directions for taking Acetazolamide. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Acetazolamide at room temperature. Are there any Acetazolamide side effects? Acetazolamide side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common 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, and vomiting. Less common or rare Acetazolamide side effects may include anemia, black or bloody stools, blood in urine, confusion, convulsions, drowsiness, fever, hives, liver dysfunction, nearsightedness, paralysis, rash, sensitivity to light, severe allergic reaction, and skin peeling. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Acetazolamide? If Acetazolamide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Acetazolamide with Amitriptyline (Elavil), Amphetamines (such as Dexedrine), Aspirin, Cyclosporine (Sandimmune), Lithium (Lithonate), Methenamine (Urex), Oral diabetes drugs (such as Micronase), or Quinidine (Quinidex). Are there any special warnings about Acetazolamide? Be very careful about taking high doses of aspirin if you are also taking Acetazolamide. Effects of this combination can range from loss of appetite, sluggishness, and rapid breathing to unresponsiveness. The combination can be fatal. If you have emphysema or other breathing disorders, use this drug with caution. 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. |
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