Acetazolamide Tablets

How to Order Prescriptions

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Description

Acetazolamide Tablets are a prescription medication used in veterinary medicine for the management of several medical conditions in dogs, cats, and horses. As a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, acetazolamide reduces the production of aqueous humor within the eye and alters electrolyte movement within the kidneys, making it useful for conditions involving increased intraocular pressure and certain metabolic disorders.

Veterinarians commonly prescribe acetazolamide for the treatment of glaucoma in dogs and cats to help lower intraocular pressure. In horses, it is widely used in the management of Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP), a hereditary muscle disorder affecting certain Quarter Horses and related breeds. It may also be prescribed for metabolic alkalosis and other conditions when clinically appropriate.

Because acetazolamide is a prescription medication and its use in veterinary medicine is extra-label, dosing is individualized based on the species, condition being treated, and patient response. Treatment should always be directed and monitored by a licensed veterinarian.

Uses & Benefits

• Prescription medication for veterinary use
• Helps reduce intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma
• Commonly prescribed for horses with Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP)
• May be used in the management of metabolic alkalosis
• Oral tablet for convenient administration
• Can be administered with food to help minimize stomach upset
• Suitable for dogs, cats, and horses under veterinary supervision

How It Works

Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. It works by reducing the activity of the carbonic anhydrase enzyme, decreasing fluid production within the eye and increasing urinary excretion of bicarbonate, sodium, water, and potassium.

In dogs and cats, lowering aqueous humor production helps reduce intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma. In horses with HYPP, acetazolamide alters electrolyte balance and helps reduce the frequency and severity of muscle episodes in affected animals.

Indications

Acetazolamide Tablets may be prescribed by veterinarians for the management of:
Dogs:

• Glaucoma
• Metabolic alkalosis
• Other veterinarian-diagnosed conditions

Cats:

• Glaucoma
• Metabolic alkalosis
• Other veterinarian-diagnosed conditions

Horses:

• Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP)

Use in animals is extra-label and should only occur under the direction of a licensed veterinarian.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

Each Tablet Contains
Acetazolamide

Inactive Ingredients:

Inactive ingredients vary by manufacturer and tablet strength and may include pharmaceutical excipients such as:

• Lactose
• Microcrystalline Cellulose
• Corn Starch
• Magnesium Stearate
• Sodium Starch Glycolate

Refer to manufacturer labeling for the complete inactive ingredient list.

Directions

Use only as directed by your veterinarian.

Administer orally.

May be given with or without food.
Giving with food may help reduce stomach upset.
Administer at evenly spaced intervals as prescribed.
Ensure your pet or horse has access to fresh water throughout treatment.

Do not change the prescribed dosage or discontinue treatment without consulting your veterinarian.

Your veterinarian will determine the appropriate dosage and treatment schedule.

Cautions

Federal law restricts this drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
For animal use only.
Keep out of reach of children.
Do not use in animals with known hypersensitivity to acetazolamide or sulfonamides.
Use with caution in animals with kidney disease, liver disease, electrolyte imbalances, adrenal disease, or dehydration.
Routine monitoring of blood work and electrolytes may be recommended during prolonged therapy.

Possible Side Effects

Possible side effects may include:

• Decreased appetite
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Electrolyte abnormalities
• Stomach upset

Contact your veterinarian if severe weakness, collapse, persistent vomiting, seizures, or unusual behavior develops.

Precautions

Follow your veterinarian's dosing instructions carefully.
Monitor water consumption during treatment.
Periodic blood work may be recommended during long-term use.
Inform your veterinarian of all medications and supplements your animal is receiving.
Do not administer additional doses if one is missed unless instructed by your veterinarian.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (68°F to 77°F).
Keep container tightly closed.
Protect from excessive moisture and heat.
Store in the original container.

Refer to the manufacturer's labeling for complete storage recommendations.