Acetazolamide induced noncardiogenic pulmonary edema, an underreported serious adverse event

Purpose: To report a case of acute noncardiogenic pulmonary edema (NCPE) after administration of acetazolamide post routine cataract surgery. Observations: 30 minutes after administration of oral acetazolamide, the patient experienced abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and diaphoresis. The patient was taken to the emergency room where she was found to have pulmonary edema. After life threatening respiratory failure resulting in prolonged intubation, the patient was eventually discharged from the hospital. Conclusions and importance: NCPE is a rare but severe adverse effect of acetazolamide and should be considered when prescribing such agents.