Always inform your ophthalmologist about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, before starting acetazolamide. This helps prevent potentially harmful interactions.
Interactions with other glaucoma medications:
Combining acetazolamide with other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (like dorzolamide or brinzolamide) increases the risk of side effects like metabolic acidosis and kidney stones. Your doctor might adjust dosages or choose alternative treatments to minimize this risk. Similarly, concurrent use with other diuretics, such as thiazides, amplifies the risk of electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. Careful monitoring of electrolyte levels is necessary.
Interactions with non-glaucoma medications:
Acetazolamide can interact with lithium, potentially leading to increased lithium levels and toxicity. Patients taking lithium require close monitoring of lithium levels and careful dose adjustments when acetazolamide is added or removed. It can also interact with medications metabolized by the kidneys, possibly affecting their elimination. Examples include certain antibiotics and NSAIDs. Your doctor should assess the potential for drug interactions and adjust dosages accordingly.
Remember, this information is not exhaustive. Individual responses to medications vary, and your doctor will make the best treatment decisions based on your specific health situation.
