Acetazolamide
Acetazolamide, sold here as Diamox 250 mg tablets, is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that reduces fluid production in the eye and brain. It is used for glaucoma, altitude sickness and selected oedema.
Key points
- Blocking carbonic anhydrase changes how the kidneys handle bicarbonate, which is the mechanism behind the fluid reduction.
- Tingling in the fingers, altered taste and shifts in acid-base balance are medicine-specific effects of acetazolamide.
- Diamox is the original brand of acetazolamide.
What Diamox is used for
Acetazolamide appears in Glaucoma treatment to lower pressure inside the eye, and in Altitude Sickness prevention to support the body’s adjustment to reduced oxygen at height. It also has a role in selected oedema settings. The single product on this shelf, Diamox 250 mg tablets, is listed for all three uses and sits under Eye Care.
Further reading
What is acetazolamide used for?
Acetazolamide is used for glaucoma to lower pressure inside the eye, for altitude sickness prevention, and in some cases of oedema.
How does acetazolamide work?
Acetazolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase, blocking the bicarbonate transport system and decreasing fluid secretion in the brain, eyes and kidneys.
How long does acetazolamide take to work?
Acetazolamide takes about 1 to 2 hours to start working. Its effect lasts around 8 to 12 hours.
What are the side effects of acetazolamide?
Acetazolamide can cause tingling in the fingers, nausea and altered taste. Serious effects include agranulocytosis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which need immediate medical attention. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you notice side effects.
Can acetazolamide be taken with other medicines?
Acetazolamide interacts with aspirin, ciclosporin and lithium. If you take any of these, ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking acetazolamide.
In which products can I find acetazolamide?
On Direct Meds, acetazolamide comes as Diamox. Compare their forms, strengths and packs.
What does acetazolamide cost in rand?
Compare the rand prices for each product, strength and pack above. Prices are converted from US dollars. Larger packs usually cost less per tablet.
Payment and prices →Is acetazolamide available over the counter in South Africa?
Yes, online. Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order acetazolamide. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.
Ordering without a prescription →Do you deliver acetazolamide to South Africa?
Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.
How ordering works →