There’s a chance acetazolamide can cause side effects, like any medication you might take. Not everyone will get them – but it’s important to be aware of possible side effects you could experience while at altitude.
If you get any sudden breathlessness, wheeziness, a rash, itching, or swelling of your eyelids, face, or lips after taking acetazolamide – stop taking it immediately and seek medical assistance. These are signs of a very rare severe allergic reaction.
Because acetazolamide affects your blood to make it more acidic, it can mean you’re more likely to catch infections – and it might affect how well your blood clots. If you come down with a sore throat or fever, or if you find any unexplained bruises or tiny red or purple spots on your skin, contact your doctor right away. The same goes for if you notice your muscles feel weak, or if you have a fit.
Acetazolamide can also affect your liver and kidneys. If you notice any of the following side effects, speak to your doctor:
- Pain in your lower back
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Difficulty passing urine, or you stop passing urine
- Blood in your urine
- Slightly yellow skin or eyes
- Pale stools
- Black or tarry stools
- Blood in your stools
Some other side effects of acetazolamide you might experience include:
- Headaches
- Diarrhoea
- Sickness and nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness, losing control of arms or legs
- Urinating more often than normal
- Tiredness or irritability
- Drowsiness or confusion
- Hearing difficulties or ringing in the ears
This isn’t a comprehensive list of acetazolamide’s side effects. If you’re after any more information, check out the patient information leaflet, or speak to your clinician.
