Acetazolamide
Acetazolamide
Acetazolamide (/əˌsɛtəˈzæləmaɪd/), also known as Diamox among other brand names, is a medication primarily used to treat glaucoma, epilepsy, altitude sickness, periodic paralysis, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, and heart failure. It belongs to a class of drugs known as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors.
Etymology
The term "Acetazolamide" is derived from its chemical structure, which consists of an acetamido group attached to a thiazole ring and a sulfonamide functionality.
Pharmacology
Acetazolamide works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, reducing the concentration of hydrogen ions and bicarbonate in the body. This leads to a reduction in fluid production and a decrease in intraocular pressure, making it effective in the treatment of glaucoma. It also increases the excretion of bicarbonate in the kidney, causing a compensatory increase in plasma potassium and hydrogen concentrations, which can help in the treatment of periodic paralysis and altitude sickness.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Acetazolamide include nausea, diarrhea, numbness in the hands or feet, and a loss of appetite. More serious side effects can include blood disorders, kidney stones, and severe allergic reactions.
Related Terms
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy
- Altitude sickness
- Periodic paralysis
- Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
- Heart failure
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acetazolamide
- Wikipedia's article - Acetazolamide
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