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Acetazolamide Extended Release Oral Capsule (ACETAZOLAMIDE - ORAL)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • altitude sickness
  • fluid accumulation in brain
  • glaucoma

Generic Name: Acetazolamide

Instructions

Swallow the medicine without crushing or chewing it.

This medicine may be taken with or without food, but it is important to take it the same way each time.

This medicine will work best if you take it at about the same time every day.

Try to avoid taking the medicine at bedtime.

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom.

This medicine will make you urinate more. If you have difficulty passing urine, please tell your doctor.

Drink plenty of water while on this medicine.

This medicine can make you sensitive to the sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing when in sun.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses at one time.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

This medicine may affect your blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before changing the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients taking this medicine have experienced serious side effects. Please speak with your doctor to understand the risks and benefits associated with this medicine.

This medicine has been associated with a rare but serious skin rash. If you notice any red, peeling or blistered skin, contact your doctor immediately.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially after exercising or in hot weather. Be very careful when standing or sitting up quickly.

Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.

Speak with your doctor before taking any medicine with aspirin.

Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine.

Contact your doctor if you notice a change in the amount or darkening of your urine.

Call the doctor if there are any signs of confusion or unusual changes in behavior.

Contact your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection such as fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

This medicine should be used with caution in patients with breathing difficulties.

Call your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • blurry vision
  • dizziness or drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • lack of energy and tiredness
  • headaches
  • nausea
  • stomach upset or abdominal pain
  • increased urinary frequency

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • bleeding or bruising
  • difficulty concentrating
  • confusion
  • ear problems (ringing in the ears, hearing loss)
  • pain in the eye
  • fever or chills
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • muscle pain or cramps
  • red, peeling or blistering skin
  • sore throat
  • stomach pain
  • severe stomach or bowel pain
  • unusual or unexplained tiredness or weakness
  • difficulty or discomfort urinating
  • blood in urine
  • dark urine
  • sudden change or loss of vision
  • severe or persistent vomiting
  • weakness
  • yellowing of eyes or skin

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.

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