Acetazolamide: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. It is a prescription medicine used for glaucoma, altitude sickness, epilepsy and fluid retention. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 4 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Acetazolamide works

Acetazolamide blocks an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase. In the eye this reduces the production of fluid, lowering eye pressure. Elsewhere it makes the blood slightly more acidic and increases urine output, which helps breathing adapt at altitude and can make seizures less likely.

What is Acetazolamide used for?

• Glaucoma
• Altitude sickness
• Epilepsy
• Fluid retention

Acetazolamide is used to lower raised pressure inside the eye in glaucoma, including before eye surgery. It is also used alongside other medicines for some types of epilepsy, to reduce fluid retention, and to help prevent or ease altitude sickness when climbing to high altitude. It is sometimes used for raised pressure around the brain.

Side effects of Acetazolamide

Side effects of Acetazolamide are fairly common but often mild. They include:

• Tingling in the fingers, toes or face
• Passing more urine
• Change in taste, especially fizzy drinks
• Loss of appetite or nausea
• Tiredness or drowsiness

Stop taking it and get medical help straight away if you develop a severe rash or blistering, a sore throat with fever or unusual bruising, severe pain in the side or back, or blood in the urine.

Precautions and warnings

• Do not take Acetazolamide if you are allergic to sulfonamide (sulfa) medicines.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, kidney stones, or low sodium or potassium levels.
• Let your doctor know if you take high-dose aspirin, other diuretics, lithium or anti-epileptic medicines.
• Drink enough fluids while taking it to reduce the risk of kidney stones.
• It is usually avoided in pregnancy, especially early pregnancy, so speak to your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions about Acetazolamide

What is the price of Acetazolamide in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Acetazolamide products currently in stock range from Rs 361 to Rs 537 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Diamox 250mg Tablet at Rs 361. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Acetazolamide are available in Pakistan?

Acetazolamide is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Azm (Ethical Laboratories Pak Ltd), Acetamide (Sante Limited), Acemox (Vega Pharmaceuticals Ltd) and Diamox (Pfizer Laboratories Ltd).

Do I need a prescription for Acetazolamide?

Yes. Acetazolamide is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Can Acetazolamide be used during pregnancy?

It is usually avoided in pregnancy, especially early pregnancy, so speak to your doctor first.

Are all Acetazolamide brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Acetazolamide in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Acetazolamide brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 4 products containing Acetazolamide from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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