Depression, fatigue, and lethargy are common side effects and are often not realized by the patient or by close family. These side effects may not appear immediately but develop gradually. Since many patients with glaucoma are elderly, these side effects are attributed to getting older. Patients and their families should be on the alert for these side effects and, when suspected, the drug can be stopped for a short time for verification. Other common side effects are gastrointestinal upset, metallic taste to carbonated beverages, impotence, and weight loss.
Sequels cause less side effects than tablets.
The use of dorzolamide, which is as effective as acetazolamide in most patients, has markedly reduced the frequency and severity of these side effects. Alpha Agonists Alpha Agonists are chemically related to systemic medications for the treatment of hypertension, systemic side effects of these medications are unusual. Patients who develop an allergy to apraclonidine can be switched to brimonidine. The most common side effects are slight elevation of the upper lid, dry mouth, dry nose, and mild sedation. Prostaglandin Analogues Prostaglandin Analogues stimulate the uveoscleral pathway for aqueous outflow, and can be potent pressure-reduction medications.