ACEREM 250mg Tablets

What is ACEREM 250mg

ACEREM 250 mg contains Acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor primarily used as a diuretic and to reduce the production of aqueous humor in the eye. It is commonly prescribed to manage various medical conditions including glaucoma, certain types of epilepsy, altitude sickness, and edema.

• Glaucoma: ACEREM helps reduce intraocular pressure by decreasing aqueous humor secretion, thus preventing optic nerve damage and vision loss.
• Epilepsy: Used as an adjunctive therapy to control certain types of seizures by altering neuronal excitability.
• Altitude Sickness: Helps alleviate symptoms by promoting acid-base balance and stimulating breathing.
• Edema: Used in some cases to treat fluid retention related to congestive heart failure or drug-induced edema.

Its broad spectrum of clinical applications stems from its unique mechanism affecting fluid and electrolyte balance at the cellular level.

How to use ACEREM 250mg

Proper use of ACEREM ensures its effectiveness and minimizes potential risks. Key instructions include:

• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage strictly; typical adult doses vary based on the condition treated.
• Administration: Tablets should be taken orally with a full glass of water.
• Timing: Take ACEREM with food to reduce gastrointestinal irritation, unless otherwise directed.
• Consistency: Maintain consistent dosing times each day to keep steady blood levels.
• Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is near the next scheduled dose. Do not double dose.
• Duration: Do not stop therapy abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, especially in chronic conditions.

Always inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking to avoid interactions.

Mode of Action ACEREM 250mg

Acetazolamide in ACEREM acts primarily by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which plays a key role in several physiological processes:

• Inhibition of Carbonic Anhydrase: This enzyme facilitates the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into bicarbonate and protons.
• Reduction of Aqueous Humor Production: In the eye, carbonic anhydrase inhibition decreases bicarbonate formation, reducing fluid transport and lowering intraocular pressure.
• Renal Effects: In the kidneys, blocking carbonic anhydrase leads to increased excretion of bicarbonate, sodium, potassium, and water, producing a diuretic effect.
• Acid-Base Balance: By promoting bicarbonate loss, ACEREM causes mild metabolic acidosis, which can stimulate ventilation helpful in altitude sickness.
• Neurological Effects: Alters neuronal excitability, which contributes to seizure control in epilepsy patients.

This multifaceted mechanism explains the drug’s diverse clinical uses.

ACEREM 250mg Interactions ACEREM 250mg

ACEREM can interact with various medications, potentially altering effects or increasing side effects:

• Other Diuretics: Combination may increase risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
• Salicylates (Aspirin): May increase the risk of salicylate toxicity.
• Phenytoin and Lithium: Serum levels may be affected; monitor closely.
• Corticosteroids: Enhanced potassium loss, increasing risk of hypokalemia.
• Cyclosporine: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity.
• Metformin: Risk of lactic acidosis may increase when combined.

Always consult your healthcare provider before combining ACEREM with other drugs, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.

Dosage of ACEREM 250mg

Dosage varies depending on the indication and patient condition. General guidelines include:

• Glaucoma: Typically, 250 mg to 1000 mg daily in divided doses.
• Altitude Sickness Prevention: 250 mg twice daily starting 1-2 days before ascent and continuing for 2 days after reaching altitude.
• Edema: Dose adjusted according to response, usually 250 mg to 1000 mg daily.
• Epilepsy: Often 8-30 mg/kg/day in divided doses; adjusted based on seizure control and tolerance.
• Elderly or renal impairment: Start with lower doses and monitor closely.

Dosage must always be individualized and adjusted under medical supervision. Regular monitoring of electrolytes and renal function is recommended during therapy.

Possible side effects of ACEREM 250mg

While ACEREM is effective, it can cause side effects, ranging from mild to severe:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Tingling or numbness in fingers and toes (paresthesia)
  • Frequent urination and increased thirst
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Fatigue or dizziness
• Less Common but Serious Side Effects:
  • Electrolyte imbalance, especially low potassium and sodium
  • Metabolic acidosis
  • Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, or breathing difficulty
  • Kidney stones
  • Blood disorders such as anemia or thrombocytopenia (rare)

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as severe rash, persistent vomiting, confusion, muscle weakness, or signs of infection.

ACEREM 250mg Contraindications ACEREM 250mg

Do not use ACEREM if you have any of the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity to Acetazolamide or sulfonamide derivatives.
• Severe kidney or liver disease.
• Adrenal gland insufficiency (e.g., Addison’s disease).
• Electrolyte imbalances such as hyponatremia or hypokalemia.
• Severe metabolic acidosis.
• During the first trimester of pregnancy and breastfeeding unless specifically advised by your doctor.

Always disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare provider before starting ACEREM.

Storage of ACEREM 250mg

To preserve the quality and effectiveness of ACEREM 250 mg tablets, adhere to these storage guidelines:

• Store at room temperature between 20°C and 25°C (68°F–77°F).
• Protect from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
• Keep tablets in the original blister pack until use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use expired medication.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets safely, following local regulations or returning them to a pharmacy.

Proper storage ensures medication stability and reduces the risk of degradation.