ACETAZOLAMIDE belongs to a group of medicines called carbonic anhydrase inhibitors used to treat glaucoma, oedema (fluid retention), epilepsy, and to treat and prevent altitude/mountain sickness. ACETAZOLAMIDE works by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase enzyme. This inhibitory action decreases the secretion of aqueous humour, thereby lowers intraocular pressure. ACETAZOLAMIDE inhibits the carbonic anhydrase enzyme; this helps retard abnormal, excessive discharge from central nervous system neurons, thereby helps treat certain dysfunctions of the central nervous system such as epilepsy. ACETAZOLAMIDE reduces the activity of carbonic anhydrase, thereby helps lower fluid retention. ACETAZOLAMIDE may also be used to treat muscle weakness/periodic paralysis and to lower the increased pressure in the areas surrounding the spinal cord and brain.
Take ACETAZOLAMIDE as prescribed. You are advised to take ACETAZOLAMIDE for as long as your doctor has prescribed it for you, depending on your medical condition. In some cases, you may experience certain common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, and increased urination. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Avoid taking ACETAZOLAMIDE if you are pregnant, think you are pregnant or planning for pregnancy. Consult your doctor before taking ACETAZOLAMIDE if you are breastfeeding. ACETAZOLAMIDE is not recommended for children as safety and effectiveness have not been established. ACETAZOLAMIDE might cause dizziness and drowsiness; so, drive only if you are alert. Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and the medicines you are taking to prevent any side effects/interactions.