Acetazolamide: Uses, Dose and Side Effects

Acetazolamide: Uses, Dose and Side Effects For Dogs, Cats & Horses

Overview

Acetazolamide is a systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitor diuretic and antiglaucoma agent.

Uses of Acetazolamide For Dogs, Cats and Horses

• Episodic Falling in Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS): Used for managing episodic falling in CKCS experiencing a high frequency of collapse episodes refractory to other treatments (e.g., clonazepam and diazepam). The drug should be discontinued if there is no favorable response after two weeks on a 12-hour dosing schedule.
• Paroxysmal Dyskinesias: May be beneficial for managing other forms of paroxysmal dyskinesias.
• Glaucoma: Helps in reducing intraocular pressure in glaucoma cases.
• Metabolic Acidosis: Used as part of the management strategy for metabolic acidosis.
• Horses: Used to manage hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP).

Dose of Acetazolamide For Dogs, Cats and Horses

Dose of Acetazolamide For Dogs:

CKCS Episodic Falling Syndrome: 4–8 mg/kg p.o. every 8–12 hours.

Dose of Acetazolamide For  Cats:

Not recommended: Cats are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

Dose of Acetazolamide For  Horses:

Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP): Administer 2–4 mg/kg p.o. two to three times daily, depending on the severity of the condition.

Side Effects of Acetazolamide In Dogs, Cats and All Animals

• Dogs: Weakness, gastrointestinal disturbances, panting, metabolic acidosis, diuresis, electrolyte disturbances, and potassium depletion.
• Horses: Potential side effects include diuresis, dehydration, and metabolic acidosis. Monitoring for electrolyte imbalances, particularly potassium, is crucial.
• Small Mammals: May experience similar side effects to dogs, including gastrointestinal upset and electrolyte disturbances.
• Cats: Due to their high sensitivity to the drug’s effects, acetazolamide is not recommended for use.

Contraindications of Acetazolamide In Dogs, Cats, Horses and All Animals

• Dogs:
  1. Avoid in anorexic dogs or those with hepatic or renal dysfunction.
  2. Contraindicated in dogs with sulphonamide hypersensitivity.
• Cats: Should not be used due to their susceptibility to adverse effects.
• Horses: Use cautiously in those with electrolyte imbalances or renal dysfunction.
• Small Mammals: Caution is advised in animals with pre-existing metabolic disturbances or those at risk for dehydration.

Some Notes:

• Urine Alkalinization: Acetazolamide alkalinizes the urine, which may decrease weak bases’ excretion rate and increase weak acids’ excretion.
• Concurrent Drug Use:
  1. Corticosteroids: Concurrent use with corticosteroids may exacerbate potassium depletion, leading to hypokalemia.
  2. Electrolyte Monitoring: Regular monitoring of electrolytes, especially potassium, is recommended during treatment to prevent metabolic disturbances.
• Other Species: Professional guidance and careful dose adjustments are necessary when considering use in species not commonly treated (e.g., exotic animals) due to potentially varied responses and adverse effects.