Applications of Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors in Arthritis, Neuropathic Pain, Acute Mountain Sickness, and Cerebral Ischemia

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) have long been used as diuretics, topically acting antiglaucoma agents, anticonvulsants, and for the treatment of altitude sickness. Lately, they have shown promising results as anti-obesity, antimicrobial, and mainly antitumor agents. Recent studies have reported the efficacy of CAIs in treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and neuropathic pain. Moreover, a polypharmacological profile has been demonstrated for sulfonamide COX-2 inhibitors such as celecoxib, which also effectively inhibit CAs. Additionally, emerging research showed the effectiveness of CAIs in cerebral ischemia, where they help protect brain tissue by modulating pH levels and reducing acidosis-induced neuronal damage.