Glaucoma Treatment with Acetazolamide

Introduction to Acetazolamide

• Acetazolamide is an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that decreases aqueous humor production, resulting in reduced intraocular pressure (IOP), and is specifically indicated for the treatment of glaucoma, providing a 20-30% reduction in IOP, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1, 2, 3
• The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends acetazolamide as an effective medication for lowering eye pressure in patients with glaucoma 1

Side Effects and Contraindications

• Common side effects of acetazolamide include Stevens-Johnson syndrome, malaise, anorexia, depression, renal calculi, blood dyscrasias, metallic taste, paresthesia, and gastrointestinal symptoms, as reported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1, 2
• Contraindications for acetazolamide include kidney stones, aplastic anemia, and sickle cell disease, as stated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1, 2

Other Medications

• Mannitol can be used for acute IOP reduction in emergency situations, but it is not a standard chronic glaucoma medication, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology 4
• Furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, and spironolactone are not indicated for glaucoma treatment, as they do not significantly affect aqueous humor production or outflow, as reported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 4, 5