Acetazolamide sodium

TRADE NAMES:

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This drug is used in dogs and cats primarily to reduce pressure in the eye. Acetazolamide is available in tablets and extended release capsules.

WHAT IS THIS DRUG?

• A carbonic anhydrase inhibitor
• Given by mouth

REASONS FOR PRESCRIBING:

• To treat glaucoma
• To treat metabolic alkalosis
• Can be used as a diuretic

WHAT DOGS/CATS SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICATION?

• Animals with liver or kidney disease
• Animals with pre-existing blood disorders
• Animals with electrolyte disorders
• Animals with Addison's disease
• Animals with metabolic or respiratory acidosis
• Animals that may be pregnant or nursing
• Precaution with use in diabetic animals
• Acetazolamide is related to sulfonamide drugs - any animals or caregivers with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this drug should not handle or take this medication

Read and follow the prescription label carefully.

Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed. This medication is often given with food to reduce the potential for stomach upset.

Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian directs. Do not skip doses or stop giving the medication without consulting your veterinarian.

Baseline blood work is recommended to assess your pet's general health before starting this drug.

Periodic blood work to monitor its effect on the body is also advised if long-term therapy is necessary. Dose adjustments may be made based upon these results and an assessment of how your dog or cat is responding clinically. If treating for glaucoma, intraocular pressures should be monitored while using this medication.

Call ahead for refills.

Ideally, give medication at the same time(s) daily.

WHAT IF A DOSE IS MISSED?

If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.

STORAGE AND WARNINGS:

Acetazolamide should be stored in a childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.

Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.

Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS:

• This medication can affect the gastrointestinal system causing vomiting and diarrhea. These side effects can be reduced by giving this medication with food
• This medication can affect the kidneys and liver
• This medication can affect the central nervous system causing sedation, depression, and/or excitement
• This medication can affect the bone marrow resulting in abnormal bruising and bleeding
• This medication can cause electrolyte and blood sugar abnormalities
• This medication can affect the skin causing hives, itchiness, or a rash
• If these symptoms persist or you notice anything else unusual, contact your veterinarian

CAN THIS DRUG BE GIVEN WITH OTHER DRUGS?

• Yes, but possible interactions may occur when giving acetazolamide in conjunction with: amphotericin B, aspirin, corticosteroids, corticotropin, digoxin, furosemide, insulin, methotrexate, phenobarbital, primidone, procainamide, and quinidine
• Drugs other than those listed may also interact with acetazolamide
• Do not give new food or medications without first talking to your veterinarian
• If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian

OVERDOSING?

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your pet receives more than the prescribed amount.

WHAT TO TELL/ASK A VETERINARIAN BEFORE GIVING MEDICATION?

Talk to your veterinarian about:

• When your pet will need to be rechecked
• What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
• What are the risks and benefits of using this drug

Tell your veterinarian about:

• If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products - especially sulfonamide drugs
• If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
• If your pet has experienced liver or kidney disease now or ever
• If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
• All medicines and supplements that you are giving your pet or plan to give your pet, including those you can get without a prescription. Your veterinarian may want to check that all of your pet's medications can be given together.
• If your pet is pregnant, nursing or if you plan to breed your pet

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Notify your veterinarian if your animal's condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.

As with all prescribed medicines, acetazolamide should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.

It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.

This is just a summary of information about acetazolamide. If you have any questions or concerns about acetazolamide or the condition it was prescribed for, please contact your veterinarian.