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Acetazolamide

Generic name: acetazolamide [ a-SEET-a-ZOLE-a-mide ]
Brand names: Diamox, Diamox Sequels
Dosage forms: oral capsule, extended release (500 mg), oral tablet (125 mg; 250 mg)
Drug classes: Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor anticonvulsants, Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 3, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is acetazolamide?

Acetazolamide reduces the activity of a protein in your body called carbonic anhydrase. Blocking this protein can help reduce the build-up of certain fluids in the body.

Acetazolamide is used in people with certain types of glaucoma to reduce the amount of fluid in the eye, which decreases pressure inside the eye.

Acetazolamide is also used as a diuretic ("water pill") in people with congestive heart failure, to reduce the build-up of fluid in the body. This build-up is called edema.

Acetazolamide is also used to treat certain types of seizures, and to treat or prevent altitude sickness.

Acetazolamide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Acetazolamide side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Acetazolamide may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of acetazolamide may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

You should not use acetazolamide if you have cirrhosis, severe liver or kidney disease, an electrolyte imbalance, adrenal gland failure, or an allergy to acetazolamide or sulfa drugs.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use acetazolamide if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

To make sure acetazolamide is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Acetazolamide can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.

Acetazolamide is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take acetazolamide?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Do not use acetazolamide in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Your dose of this medicine will depend on the condition you are treating. If you take acetazolamide for congestive heart failure, your doctor may tell you to skip your medication for a day. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

While using acetazolamide, you may need frequent blood tests.

Acetazolamide may be only part of a complete treatment program that may also include other medications. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking acetazolamide?

acetazolamide may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Acetazolamide can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

What other drugs will affect acetazolamide?

Other drugs may interact with acetazolamide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.