Key takeaways
Methazolamide and dexamethasone are both medications used to treat eye conditions, but they belong to different medication classes. Methazolamide is a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor that is FDA-approved to lower eye pressure in conditions like glaucoma. It's taken orally in tablet form, typically 2 or 3 times a day. Dexamethasone, on the other hand, is a corticosteroid that treats a wide range of inflammatory conditions, including certain eye conditions, and is available in eye drop, oral, and intravenous forms. While methazolamide is available as a lower-cost generic, dexamethasone is available under brand names like Maxidex and Hemady and also comes as a generic. Methazolamide can cause side effects such as tingling in the arms or legs and stomach upset. Dexamethasone may lead to weight gain, weakened bones, and higher blood sugar levels, and it has many medication interactions. Unlike methazolamide, dexamethasone requires tapering to avoid withdrawal symptoms if used long-term.
