Methazolamide

Methazolamide is used to treat glaucoma, tremors and other ailments, including altitude sickness. It works by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase. Methazolamide reduces pressure and fluid in the eyes.

In some rare cases, methazolamide has been linked to Stevens Johnson Syndrome, a skin disease that can cause rash, peeling and sores on mucous membranes. This disease can be fatal.

At the Department of Opthalmology at Tokyo University, there were four cases of SJS that were found to be caused by Methazolamide. It was found that in all of the cases, the disease was discovered after just two weeks of starting the medication. The disease was seen to progress rapidly and did not subside after the drug was discontinued.

Some serious side effects may include:

• An allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives)
• Sore throat or a fever
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Side or groin pain
• Tingling or tremors in the hands or feet
• Rash

Less serious side effects may include:

• Decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, or changes in taste
• Drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, or weakness
• Nervousness or tremor
• Headache or confusion
• Increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
• Worsening gout
• Loss of blood sugar control (if you are diabetic)
• Ringing in your ears or hearing problems
• Changes in vision