Acetazolamide

/ˌæsɪtəˈzoʊləmaɪd/ noun

Definition

A medication that reduces fluid buildup in the body by decreasing the production of cerebrospinal fluid, used to treat glaucoma, altitude sickness, and certain seizure disorders.

Etymology

From 'acetyl-' (the acetyl group, CH₃CO-) + 'azo-' (containing nitrogen) + 'amide' (a chemical compound with NH₂). This is a modern pharmaceutical coinage combining chemical nomenclature to describe the drug's molecular structure.

Kelly Says

Acetazolamide saved mountaineers' lives—climbers taking this drug can summit Everest with half the risk of altitude sickness because it prevents fluid from pooling dangerously in the brain and lungs!

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