Cidamex tablets are a multi-purpose medication containing the active ingredient acetazolamide at a concentration of 250 mg in each tablet. Acetazolamide belongs to a class of carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and is characterized by its diuretic properties and ability to lower intraocular pressure. Cidamex is primarily used to prevent and treat the symptoms associated with acute mountain sickness (AMS), a condition that affects some people during rapid ascent to high altitudes. It is also used to treat acute elevated intraocular pressure in patients with acute angle-closure glaucoma, an emergency condition that requires rapid intervention to prevent optic nerve damage.
The active ingredient in Cidamex tablets
The therapeutic efficacy of Cidamex tablets depends primarily on the presence of the following active ingredient at a precise and specific concentration to ensure optimal therapeutic results in the recommended cases:
Acetazolamide: Available in a concentration of 250 mg per tablet. Acetazolamide is a potent inhibitor of the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, which plays a vital role in regulating many physiological processes in the body.
Mechanism of Action of Cidamex Tablets
Acetazolamide, found in Cidamex Tablets, works by inhibiting the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, resulting in a range of therapeutic effects:
In the kidneys: Inhibiting carbonic anhydrase in the kidneys reduces the reabsorption of bicarbonate ions in the renal tubules. This leads to increased excretion of bicarbonate, sodium, and water in the urine, resulting in a diuretic effect. This mechanism helps reduce fluid accumulation in the body and may be useful in some cases associated with acute mountain sickness.
In the eyes: Inhibiting carbonic anhydrase in the eyes reduces the production of aqueous humor, the fluid within the eye. Decreased production of aqueous humor lowers intraocular pressure, making it useful in treating elevated intraocular pressure associated with acute angle-closure glaucoma.
In the brain and respiration: It is believed that inhibiting carbonic anhydrase in the brain may help speed up the process of adapting to high altitude. By increasing bicarbonate secretion in the kidneys, a slight acidification of the blood occurs. This acidification stimulates the respiratory center in the brain, leading to increased breathing rate and depth, thus improving the body's oxygen supply in low-pressure environments.
Indications for Use of Cidamex Tablets
Cidamex 250 mg tablets are used to treat and prevent the following conditions:
Prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): It is used to prevent symptoms associated with AMS, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath when rapidly ascending to high altitudes. It is usually taken one or two days before the ascent and continued for several days while at high altitudes.
Treatment of elevated intraocular pressure in acute angle-closure glaucoma (AAG): It is used to rapidly lower intraocular pressure in acute angle-closure glaucoma emergency cases before surgical intervention or other treatments.
Other Uses: Cidamex may also be prescribed for other conditions, such as some types of epilepsy (as an adjunctive treatment), cerebral edema (under medical supervision), and central sleep apnea syndrome.
How to Use Cidamex Tablets
Cidamex tablets should be used exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage and method of use depend on the condition being treated:
For the prevention of acute mountain sickness: The usual dose is 250 mg two or three times daily, starting one to two days before ascent and continuing for two to three days while at high altitude.
For the treatment of acute angle-closure glaucoma: The initial dose may be 500 mg, followed by smaller doses under close medical supervision.
The tablets should be taken orally with plenty of water. It is important to drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication, especially when used as a diuretic. Do not change the dose or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.