Acetazolamide for the Management of Diuretic-Induced Chloride Depletion Alkalosis: A Systematic Review.

Background

Acetazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that inhibits proximal sodium bicarbonate reabsorption, thus increasing urinary bicarbonate excretion. Despite its widespread distribution in the body and beneficial effects on alkaline diuresis, its efficacy and the optimal dosage and duration of acetazolamide in treating metabolic acidosis remain areas of uncertainty. This review aims to assess the effectiveness of acetazolamide in treating chloride depletion alkalosis, mainly induced by diuretics, through a systematic evaluation of clinical research data.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed and Embase. This review included randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case reports. Data extraction included dose, route, frequency, indication, duration of therapy, patient demographics, and outcomes.

Results

A comprehensive search strategy identified 107 studies, of which 7 met the inclusion criteria after full-text review. The reviewed studies encompassed two randomized clinical trials, one case-control study, and three case reports, collectively involving 111 patients with metabolic alkalosis. The studies revealed varied outcomes regarding the efficacy of acetazolamide in treating metabolic alkalosis induced by diuretics. While some trials demonstrated significant improvements in serum bicarbonate levels and acid-base balance, others found no statistically significant reduction in the duration of mechanical ventilation. Case reports highlighted the successful use of acetazolamide in diverse patient populations, including pediatric patients with heart disease and individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Conclusions

Acetazolamide holds promise in addressing chloride depletion alkalosis. However, a targeted clinical trial investigating its effectiveness in diuretic-induced metabolic alkalosis must strengthen the existing knowledge base.