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

Acetazolamide: Uses, Dose And Side Effects For Dogs, Cats &Amp; All Animals

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).
Vet Books

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.

Drug Dosage Calculator

You Should Give:

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.
Tip

Do You Want To Increase Your Veterinary Knowledge and Practical Skills?

You Can Now Browse and Download +3000 Veterinary Books Online In All Veterinary Fields.

Download All Veterinary Books