by It works by reducing the production of aqueous humor in the eyes which helps lower pressure inside eyes. Acetazolamide has been effective in treating various medical conditions for decades. This article discusses in detail how acetazolamide works, its medical uses, side effects and more.
How does Acetazolamide work?
Acetazolamide works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase which is present in many tissues of the body including the eyes, kidneys, stomach, pancreas and bones. Carbonic anhydrase is responsible for catalyzing the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide. By inhibiting this enzyme, acetazolamide achieves the following effects in the body:
Reduces Production of Aqueous Humor in Eyes
– The carbonic anhydrase present in the ciliary processes of the eyes is responsible for aqueous humor production. Acetazolamide inhibits this enzyme, slowing down aqueous humor production and thereby reducing intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.
Promotes Excretion of Bicarbonate in Urine
– In the kidneys, carbonic anhydrase converts carbon dioxide and water into bicarbonate and protons. Acetazolamide inhibits this reaction, reducing bicarbonate reabsorption in the kidneys. This leads to excretion of excess bicarbonate through urine, causing metabolic acidosis in the body.
Metabolic Acidosis
– As discussed above, inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in kidneys leads to excretion of bicarbonate and metabolic acidosis. This effect helps in alkalization of urine which favors precipitation of calcium kidney stones.
Medical Uses of Acetazolamide
– Glaucoma: As the first line drug for treating glaucoma, by lowering intraocular pressure.
– Epilepsy: As an adjunctive treatment for some forms of epilepsy by alkalinizing cerebrospinal fluid.
– altitude sickness: To accelerate acclimatization to high altitudes by creating a respiratory alkalosis.
– kidney stones: Together with increased fluid intake, to render urine too alkaline for calcium stones to form.
Side Effects of Acetazolamide
While Acetazolamide is very effective in treating the mentioned medical conditions, it can cause certain side effects in some people. The most commonly reported side effects include:
– Tingling of hands and feet (paresthesia)
– Fatigue, drowsiness, lack of energy
– Poor appetite, nausea, vomiting
– Confusion, difficulties with concentrating
– Electrolyte imbalances due to acid-base changes
– Kidney stones (if not taken with adequate fluid intake)
– Allergic skin rashes in rare cases
Given its multiple side effects, acetazolamide treatment should only be used under medical guidance based on need. Doctors closely monitor any side effects and manage them accordingly by making suitable dosage adjustments.
Acetazolamide is a valuable carbonic anhydrase inhibiting drug used widely for glaucoma, epilepsy, altitude sickness and prevention of certain kidney stones. While effective, it can potentially cause various side effects that require medical supervision. After decades of use, acetazolamide still remains one of the first line options for glaucoma and other mentioned conditions due its balanced efficacy and safety profile when used appropriately under medical guidance.
Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
