Acetazolamide Tablets (Generic)

What are Acetazolamide Tablets ?
Acetazolamide is a prescription diuretic medication used to treat hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP) in horses. HYPP is a genetic muscular disorder causing muscle weakness and tremors, sweating and difficulty breathing. Acetazolamide may also be used to treat glaucoma in cats and dogs.

Who is it for?
Acetazolamide is for horses, cats and dogs.

What are the benefits?

How does Acetazolamide Tablets work?
Acetazolamide Tablets are used to treat hyperkalemic periodic paralysis (HYPP) in horses. This type of periodic paralysis is characterized by hyperkalemia, or an increased level of potassium in the blood. As a diuretic agent, Acetazolamide Tablets work by ridding the body of excess fluid, along with certain minerals including potassium.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
Acetazolamide Tablets are a generic medication.

How is it given?
Acetazolamide Tablets are given by mouth. May be given with food to decrease stomach upset. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

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What results can I expect?
In horses, the use of Acetazolamide will not cure HYPP, but may help reduce the symptoms. For the treatment of glaucoma, Acetazolamide can be effective but has a high occurrence of side effects in dogs and cats.

What form(s) does it come in?
Tablet.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Diamox, Dazamide

Pronunciation
A-seat-a-ZOE-la-mide

Common Drug Name
Acetazolamide hydrochloride

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Acetazolamide Tablets?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver or kidney disease, diabetes, electrolyte disturbances, respiratory disease, Addison's disease, bleeding tendencies, a sensitivity to sulfa drugs, pulmonary obstruction, or may be pregnant or used for breeding.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking. Also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
The risk of side effects in dogs and cats is quite high. Contact your veterinarian if you notice abnormal bleeding, bruising, tremors, or a rash.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to acetazolamide or sulfa drugs. Do not use in animals with liver or kidney disease, low blood sodium or potassium levels, Addison's disease (hypoadrenocorticism), breathing problems, or lung disease. Do not use in pregnant or lactating animals unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Use with caution in animals with diabetes.

What side effects may be seen when taking Acetazolamide Tablets?
Side effects in horses are not common. In dogs and cats may see behavior changes, sleepiness or excitability, staggering, confusion, or seizures. May also see anemia, with pale gums, weakness, or lethargy, or may see bleeding tendencies. Rashes may occur, as well as changes in urination and the development of bladder stones. If you notice any of these side effects, contact your veterinarian.

How is it stored?
Store tablets at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Acetazolamide Tablets?
Avoid fasting or water deprivation in horses taking Acetazolamide. Provide regular feeding and constant access to water. Follow your veterinarian's recommendations on diet. Consult your veterinarian before using acetazolamide with phenytoin, quinidine, procainamide, corticosteroids, amphotericin B, corticotrophin, other diuretics (e.g., furosemide - Salix), insulin, or digoxin, since interactions may occur.

Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the Patient Information Sheet for dogs and cats or the Patient Information Sheet for horses on this medication.