ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It makes fizzy drinks taste flat and tingles the fingers.
What it's used for
- Preventing and treating altitude sickness
- Glaucoma
- Pseudotumor cerebri
- Some seizures
How to take it
- For altitude, start the day before ascent.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Tingling fingers and toes
- Peeing more
- Altered taste
- Tiredness
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever
Call your provider todaySide or back pain (kidney stone)
Call your provider todayUnusual bruising or fever with sore throat
Warnings
- It's a sulfa-type medicine.
- Descend if altitude sickness symptoms worsen.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- High-dose aspirin and topiramate add to side effects.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk with your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Acetazolamide (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.