What it does
Acelasolamide is a medication used to treat certain types of seizures.
Commonly used for: seizures (epilepsy), mood disorders
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:37:39 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:12
About this medicine
Acelasolamide is a medication used to treat certain types of seizures.
What it treats
- seizures (epilepsy)
- mood disorders
How it works
Acelasolamide helps to stabilize electrical activity in the brain, which can reduce the frequency of seizures.
Who it's for
This medication is prescribed for individuals with epilepsy or those experiencing mood disorders.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: acelasolamide
Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that is primarily used as a diuretic and in the treatment of certain conditions such as glaucoma, epilepsy, altitude sickness, and metabolic alkalosis. It facilitates the excretion of bicarbonate in the urine, leading to increased urine output and decreased fluid retention.
Indications
- Glaucoma
- Epilepsy (as an adjunctive therapy)
- Altitude sickness
- Metabolic alkalosis
- Diuretic for certain conditions
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing information.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for appropriate dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Acetazolamide works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which decreases the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into bicarbonate and protons. This action leads to a reduction in bicarbonate reabsorption in the proximal tubule of the nephron, resulting in increased bicarbonate and sodium excretion, diuresis, and a decrease in intraocular pressure in the eye.
Pharmacodynamics
The diuretic effect of acetazolamide is dose-dependent and is characterized by increased urinary bicarbonate, sodium, and water excretion. Its action reduces intraocular pressure by decreasing the production of aqueous humor in the eye. Additionally, acetazolamide can help in the management of metabolic alkalosis by promoting bicarbonate excretion.
Pharmacokinetics
Acetazolamide is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 2 to 4 hours after oral administration. It has a volume of distribution of about 0.2 to 0.3 L/kg and is approximately 90% protein-bound. The drug is metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted in urine, mostly in unchanged form. Its half-life ranges from 3 to 6 hours, but it can be prolonged in patients with renal impairment.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to acetasolamide or any of its components
- Severe renal impairment
- Adrenal insufficiency
Adverse effects
- Metabolic acidosis
- Hypokalemia
- Drowsiness
- Paraesthesia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anorexia
- Decreased appetite
- Fatigue
- Kidney stones
- Allergic reactions
Interactions
- Concurrent use with other carbonic anhydrase inhibitors may increase the risk of adverse effects
- Caution with diuretics that may cause electrolyte imbalance
- May enhance the effects of other CNS depressants
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease
- Monitor electrolyte levels regularly
- Assess renal function before initiating therapy
- Consider potential for cross-reactivity in patients allergic to sulfonamides
Pregnancy
Acelasolamide is classified as a Category C drug. Risk cannot be ruled out. Use only if clearly needed.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether acetasolamide is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administered to breastfeeding women.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Extended-release capsules
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.