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Low Dose Acetazolamide

University of Utah · FDA-approved active Small molecule

Acetazolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase to reduce bicarbonate reabsorption in the kidney, promoting diuresis and alkalinizing urine while lowering intraocular pressure.

Acetazolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase to reduce bicarbonate reabsorption in the kidney, promoting diuresis and alkalinizing urine while lowering intraocular pressure. Used for Open-angle glaucoma, Altitude sickness prevention and treatment, Ocular hypertension.

At a glance

Generic nameLow Dose Acetazolamide
Also known asDiamox
SponsorUniversity of Utah
Drug classCarbonic anhydrase inhibitor
TargetCarbonic anhydrase II
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOphthalmology; Pulmonology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that decreases aqueous humor production in the eye and increases renal bicarbonate excretion, leading to mild metabolic acidosis. At low doses, it is used primarily to reduce intraocular pressure in glaucoma and to prevent or treat altitude sickness by promoting respiratory alkalosis and diuresis.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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