Medical Information

Acetazolamide tablets, as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, are mainly used as adjunctive therapy for glaucoma, epilepsy, and prevention of high altitude diseases. Their efficacy is definite, but individual differences should be noted. Discontinuing medication should be gradually reduced to avoid rebound, and medication for special populations should be strictly monitored for electrolytes and kidney function.

1. Therapeutic effect

(1) Glaucoma

By reducing the generation of aqueous humor and lowering intraocular pressure, the effective rate of open-angle glaucoma is about 70% -80%, and acute angle closure glaucoma can be used as a temporary preoperative antihypertensive measure. It usually takes effect 1-2 hours after medication and lasts for 8-12 hours.

(2) Epilepsy adjuvant therapy

Effective for absence seizures and partial myoclonic epilepsy, often used in combination with other antiepileptic drugs. It can reduce the frequency of seizures by 30% -50%, but long-term use may develop tolerance.

(3) Prevention of altitude sickness

Taking it 24-48 hours before climbing can reduce the incidence of acute mountain sickness by more than 50%. Continue medication for 2-3 days after reaching the target altitude.

2. Precautions for discontinuation of medication

(1) The principle of gradual reduction

Long term medication users need to reduce their dosage by 25% every 3-5 days, with a total reduction period of no less than 2 weeks. Sudden discontinuation of medication may lead to a rebound increase in glaucoma intraocular pressure or exacerbation of epileptic seizures.

(2) Monitoring indicators

During the discontinuation of medication, regular monitoring of intraocular pressure (glaucoma patients), blood potassium levels, and acid-base balance is necessary. If there is an abnormality, the dosage should be temporarily reduced and medical attention should be sought.

(3) Handling of special populations

Patients with liver and kidney dysfunction need to prolong the reduction rate by 50%, and elderly patients should be monitored for cognitive function changes simultaneously. Pregnant women should discontinue medication under the guidance of an obstetrician.

3. Medication Warning

(1) Contraindications

Patients with severe renal insufficiency (creatinine clearance rate<30ml/min), hypokalemia, or metabolic acidosis are contraindicated. Individuals with a history of sulfonamide allergy should use it with caution.

(2) Adverse reaction management

Common limb numbness requires potassium salt supplementation, and individuals at risk of kidney stones should increase their water intake. If crystalline urine or hematuria occurs, the medication should be stopped immediately.

(3) Drug interactions

The combination with anticholinergic drugs may increase the risk of glaucoma, and the risk of hypokalemia doubles when combined with cardiac glycosides. Adjust the dosing interval to at least 2 hours.