Reversibly inhibits carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary body, renal tubules, and CNS. Reduces aqueous humor production (lowers IOP), promotes bicarbonate diuresis (alkaline urine), and has weak anticonvulsant effects by altering neuronal pH.
At a glance
Class
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor
Storage
Store at room temperature; reconstituted injection use within 24h
Dosing
Used for glaucoma (adjunct — reduces aqueous humor production), metabolic alkalo
Used for acute glaucoma management until definitive treatment
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
Serum electrolytes (K, Na, Cl)Blood gasIntraocular pressureRenal function
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Acetazolamide?
Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used in pets. Reversibly inhibits carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary body, renal tubules, and CNS. Reduces aqueous humor production (lowers IOP), promotes bicarbonate diuresis (alkaline urine), and has weak anticonvulsant effects by altering neuronal pH.
›What is Acetazolamide used for in pets?
Acetazolamide is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for glaucoma (adjunct — reduces aqueous humor production), metabolic alkalo; Used for acute glaucoma management until definitive treatment.
›What is the Acetazolamide dose for dogs?
For dogs, Acetazolamide is typically dosed as follows — Used for glaucoma (adjunct — reduces aqueous humor production), metabolic alkalo: 4–8 mg/kg PO/IV q8–12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Acetazolamide dose for cats?
For cats, Acetazolamide is typically dosed as follows — Used for acute glaucoma management until definitive treatment: 2–4 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Acetazolamide need a prescription?
Yes. Acetazolamide is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database