Acetazolamide

Acetazolamide: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

Acetazolamide is a systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitor.

Uses of Acetazolamide  

• Used as a treatment for the management of episodic falling in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS) experiencing a high frequency of collapse episodes which are refractory to other treatments (clonazepam and diazepam). The drug should be stopped if there is no favorable response after 2 weeks on a q12h dose.
• May be beneficial for other paroxysmal dyskinesias.
• Treat glaucoma problems and metabolic acidosis

Dose of Acetazolamide in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

CKCS episodic falling syndrome: 4–8 mg/kg p.o. q8–12h.

Cats:

Do not use

Side Effects of Acetazolamide in Dogs and Cats

Weakness, GI disturbances, panting, metabolic acidosis, diuresis, electrolyte disturbances, and potassium depletion.

Contraindications of Acetazolamide in Dogs and Cats

• Avoid in anorexic dogs, those with hepatic or renal dysfunction.
• Dogs with sulphonamide hypersensitivity.
• Cats are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.

Some Notes:

• Acetazolamide alkalinizes urine; thus, excretion rate of weak bases may be decreased but weak acid excretion increased.
• Concurrent use of corticosteroids may exacerbate potassium depletion, causing hypokalemia.