The finding that acetazolamide, a potent carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, significantly decreases the aqueous flow rate2-4,24 has led to the use of this drug as an investigative tool for the further study of the secretory mechanisms. Its mode of action in the eye is subject to controversy. Friedenwald11 and Becker1,5 favor a local action through the inhibition of carbonic anhydrase in the ciliary body, although other investigators do not subscribe to this view.13,22,24,31 A study of the effects of the drug on the aqueous and plasma cation concentrations is necessary for a complete understanding of the drug action.
Method
Adult male albino rabbits weighing from 2.5 to 3.5 kg. were utilized, and each eye was used only once for aqueous puncture. They were allowed food (Wayne Rabbit Pellets) and water without restriction. Twenty-four hours before use they were transferred from the regular animal room to an air-conditioned