Indications 

Methazolamide is a prescribed medication indicated for the reduction of intraocular pressure (pressure inside the eye) in individuals affected by specific types of glaucoma, including chronic open-angle glaucoma, secondary glaucoma, and acute angle-closure glaucoma prior to surgery. 

Classified as a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, methazolamide inhibits fluid production within the eye, thereby lowering intraocular pressure. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before starting treatment with methazolamide and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any inquiries or clarifications, seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist. 

Methazolamide dosage is determined based on an individual’s medical condition and response to the treatment. 

Typically, this medication is taken twice or thrice a day as prescribed by the doctor. If stomach upset occurs, it can be taken with food. 

Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, increase fluid intake as a preventive measure against potential side effects such as kidney stones. 

Take methazolamide regularly around the same times daily, exactly how it is prescribed. Avoid taking more or less of it or increasing the dosage frequency without your doctor’s approval. 

Continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Individuals with glaucoma or elevated intraocular pressure often do not exhibit symptoms. Ceasing methazolamide should only be done after consulting with your doctor. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of methazolamide. Inform your physician if any of them persist or deteriorate. 

Common Side Effects 

• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or diarrhea 
• Numbness or tingling, particularly in the arms and legs 
• Drowsiness and confusion 
• Hearing problems or ringing in the ears 
• Increased urination 
• Altered sense of taste 

Serious Side Effects 

• Blood in urine or stools 
• Seizures (convulsions) 
• Loss of movement in any part of the body 
• Blood cell disorder symptoms: 
  • Sudden weakness 
  • Fever 
  • Chills 
  • Sore throat 
  • Mouth sores 
  • Pale skin 
  • Fatigue 
  • Rapid heart rate 
  • Nosebleeds 
  • Bleeding gums 
• Liver problems, indicated by: 
  • Nausea 
  • Upper stomach pain or swelling 
  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Dark urine 
  • Clay-colored stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 
• Signs of metabolic acidosis: 
  • Confusion 
  • Vomiting 
  • Lack of energy 
  • Irregular heartbeats 
• Signs of kidney stones: 
  • Side or lower back pain 
  • Blood in urine 
  • Painful or difficult urination 
• Severe skin reaction: 
  • Fever 
  • Sore throat 
  • Facial or tongue swelling 
  • Burning sensation in the eyes 
  • Skin pain, followed by a spreading red or purple skin rash (particularly in the face or upper body), blistering, and peeling 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe side effects mentioned above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to methazolamide may occur. Get immediate medical assistance if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Hives 
• Difficult breathing 
• Face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of methazolamide. If you experience any unlisted effects, tell your doctor without delay. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with methazolamide, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to it or if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to other medications or to any ingredients present in methazolamide tablets. 

To ensure methazolamide is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Adrenal gland problems, such as Addison’s disease 
• Liver disease, such as cirrhosis 
• Breathing problems, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, or lung infection 
• Diabetes 
• Gout 
• Kidney problems, including a history of kidney stones 
• Untreated mineral imbalance, such as low sodium/potassium or hyperchloremic acidosis 
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) 

Some products may interact with methazolamide, including memantine and methenamine. To lower the risk of such drug interaction, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you use, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, before taking this medication. 

Review the labels of all your medications, as they may contain aspirin or aspirin-like drugs (salicylates) that can lead to severe side effects if taken in large doses alongside methazolamide.  

If your doctor specifically advises you to take low-dose aspirin (usually 81-162 milligrams per day) for heart attack or stroke prevention, continue taking it unless instructed otherwise.  

Inform laboratory personnel and all healthcare providers about your use of methazolamide, as this medication can potentially interfere with specific laboratory tests and result in inaccurate test outcomes. 

Methazolamide can potentially impair cognitive function and reflexes. Exercise caution when engaging in activities that demand alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. 

Methazolamide can increase sensitivity to sunlight. Minimize sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors. Promptly inform your doctor in the event of sunburn or skin blisters/redness. 

The use of methazolamide during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Talk to your doctor to assess your condition. 

The transfer of methazolamide into breast milk is uncertain. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.