Acetazolamide
Brands Names: Diamox / Uramox
- Form of administration: Pills or suspension
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Why is the drug here:
This drug is the choice of treatment for several medical conditions including heart failure, edema, glaucoma, intracranial hypertension and prevention of mountain sickness.
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Purpose of treatment:
It is a diuretic that reduces the volume of fluids in the body. This is the mechanism of treatment required for the above-mentioned medical conditions.
- Ingredients: The active ingredient is acetazolamide, and it inhibits an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase.
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How to use:
The dosage depends on the indication and will be determined by your physician. Do not chew the drug. You may cut it in half, as needed.
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Benefits:
This drug has a unique mechanism of action and is therefore very effective for certain medical conditions where there are no similar alternative medications to it. For example, it is the most effective drug for the prevention and treatment of mountain sickness.
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Side Effects:
It may, theoretically, have interactions and many potential side effects – do not take it without consulting a physician first. Some of the more common side effects include nausea and numbing of the extremities.
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Another word from the doctor:
What should you be familiar with when it comes to prevention and treatment of mountain sickness? Find out the answer to this and more here.