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
Safety
Serum electrolytes (K, Na, Cl)Blood gasIntraocular pressureRenal function
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.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
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.
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