Key takeaways
Methazolamide and brinzolamide (Azopt) are both carbonic anhydrase inhibitors used to lower eye pressure and treat conditions like glaucoma. Methazolamide, available as a generic, is taken orally in tablet form, typically 2 or 3 times a day. In contrast, brinzolamide is an eye drop applied directly to the eye, usually 3 times daily. While methazolamide is FDA-approved for lowering eye pressure, brinzolamide is specifically approved for ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. Methazolamide can cause side effects like tingling in the arms or legs, ringing in the ears, and stomach upset. Brinzolamide can cause blurry vision and a bitter taste, and it should be avoided if you have a sulfa allergy. Methazolamide is generally more affordable as a generic, while brinzolamide, despite having a generic version, tends to be more expensive.
