METHAZOLAMIDE – ORAL (meth-uh-ZOHL-uh-mide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Glauctabs, Neptazane
USES: This medication reduces the rate of fluid formation in the inner eye resulting in reduced intraocular pressure. It is used in the treatment of glaucoma.
HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION: Take this medication with food if stomach upset occurs. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not take this more frequently or stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. While taking this medication, your doctor may periodically test the intraocular pressure of your eye to evaluate the effectiveness of this medication.
SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, loss of appetite, constipation, frequent urination, drowsiness, weakness or headache may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: fever, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, painful urination, tingling or tremors of the hands or feet. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Be sure your doctor knows your entire medical history, especially if you have diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease or lung disease. If you are allergic to sulfa drugs, tell your doctor before taking methazolamide. This medication may cause drowsiness. Use caution when driving or operating dangerous machinery if this effect occurs. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should inform their doctors.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before you take this drug, tell your doctor what other drugs you are taking (including nonprescription drugs), especially lithium, digoxin, aspirin, phenobarbital, diuretics (‘water pills’), amphetamines, medication for depression or irregular heartbeat, and methenamine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Do not change brands of this medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Not all brands of this medication are equally effective. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not ‘double-up’ the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.
