Competition

No drugs are approved or are being tested in placebo-controlled studies in IIH patients

The following two drugs are sometimes used off-label for IIH

Acetazolamide (Commonly, Diamox)
Reduces CSF fluid production, thus can lower intracranial pressure
  • May modestly improve vision but not headache
  • Dose-limiting side effects with up to ~50% discontinuation
Topiramate (Commonly, Topamax)
  • Reduces CSF production but less effective than Diamox
  • Significant side effects limit use
  • Anorexia, tingling, weight loss, fatigue, dizziness, somnolence, nervousness, difficulty with memory

No evidence-based consensus or guidelines on drug management

“While studies have shown modest benefits for acetazolamide for some outcomes, there is insufficient evidence to recommend or reject the efficacy of this intervention, or any other treatments currently available, for treating people with IIH.”