Drug Groups

approved

Description

A carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that is used as a diuretic and in the treatment of glaucoma. [PubChem]

Indication

For treatment of chronic open-angle glaucoma and acute angle-closure glaucoma

Pharmacology

Methazolamide is topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. Methazolamide is indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who are insufficiently responsive to beta-blockers. Methazolamide is a sulfonamide derivative; however, it does not have any clinically significant antimicrobial properties. Although methazolamide achieves a high concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid, it is not-considered an effective anticonvulsant. Methazolamide has a weak and transient diuretic effect, therefore use results in an increase in urinary volume, with excretion of sodium, potassium and chloride.

Toxicity

Electrolyte imbalance, development of an acidotic state, and central nervous system effects might be expected to occur in the case of an overdose.

Affected Organisms

Absorption

Methazolamide is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Half Life

14 hours

Protein Binding

55%

Distribution

* 17 to 23 L

References

External Links