Brand name:
Neptazane
Pronounced: NEP-tuh-zayne
Generic name:
Methazolamide
Why is Neptazane prescribed?
Neptazane, anhydrase is used to treat the eye condition called
chronic open-angle glaucoma. This type of glaucoma is caused by a
gradual blockage of the outflow of fluid in the front compartment of
the eye over a period of years, causing a slow rise in pressure. It
rarely occurs before the age of 40. Neptazane is also used in the
type called acute angle-closure glaucoma when pressure within the
eye must be lowered before surgery.
Most important fact about Neptazane
This medication is related to sulfa drugs and can cause allergic
reactions, including fever, rash, redness and peeling of the skin,
hives, difficulty breathing, serious skin and blood disorders, and
even death. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you
have experienced. He or she should monitor your blood while you are
taking Neptazane. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any
allergic symptoms.
How should you take Neptazane?
Take Neptazane exactly as prescribed. Your doctor may have you
use it with other eye medications.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
Neptazane side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any occur or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Neptazane.
Most reactions to Neptazane have been mild and disappear when the
medication is stopped or the dosage is adjusted.
- Side effects may include:
Confusion,
depression,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
drowsiness,
excessive urination,
fatigue,
fever,
general feeling of not being well,
headache,
hearing problems,
loss of appetite,
nausea and vomiting,
rash,
ringing in the ears,
severe allergic reaction,
taste changes,
temporary nearsightedness,
tingling in fingers, toes, hands, or feet
Why should Neptazane not be prescribed?
Neptazane is not for use against all types of glaucoma--only the
ones mentioned in "Why is Neptazane prescribed?" Also, you should
not use Neptazane if you have kidney or liver disease, adrenal gland
disorders, or low sodium or potassium levels.
Special warnings about Neptazane
Neptazane can aggravate acidosis, a condition in which the blood
is too acidic.
If you have emphysema or a lung blockage, Neptazane will be
prescribed cautiously.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Neptazane
If Neptazane is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered.
Neptazane and high-dose aspirin taken at the same time can cause
loss of appetite, rapid breathing, lethargy, coma, and even death.
Use of Neptazane with steroids may lower your potassium level.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Neptazane in pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. Neptazane should be used by a pregnant woman only if the
potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the developing
baby. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. Neptazane may appear in breast milk and could
affect a nursing infant. If Neptazane is essential to your
health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your
treatment with Neptazane is finished.
Recommended dosage for Neptazane
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any drug taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose of Neptazane, seek medical attention
immediately.
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