Diamox Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Generic names: Acetazolamide

Brand names: Diamox

Diamox (acetazolamide) is of some value in the prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Carbonic anhydrase is a protein in your body. Women who are taking this medication and who wish to become pregnant should discuss treatment options with their physicians before the pregnancy begins. Acetazolamide reduces the activity of this protein. Carbonic anhydrase is a chemical in the body that is responsible for the production and breakdown of carbonic acid. This re-acidification acts as a respiratory stimulant, particularly at night, reducing or eliminating the periodic breathing pattern common at altitude. Diamox controls fluid secretion. Diamox must affect the level of plasma bicarbonate, but I could not tell any difference in other electrolyte levels. AMS occurs commonly during visits to 3000-4500m and usually causes a severe headache,exhaustion and feeling generally unwell. It also probably reduces the incidence of the complications of AMS mentioned above.

Diamox Dosage:

• Diamox is available in both oral and injectable form. Dosages are for the oral form only.
• Dosages for open-angle glaucoma range from 250 milligrams to 1 gram per 24 hours in 2 or more smaller doses.
• In secondary glaucoma and before surgery in acute congestive (closed-angle) glaucoma, the usual dosage is 250 milligrams every 4 hours.
• Some people may take 500 milligrams to start, and then 125 or 250 milligrams every 4 hours.
• The usual dosage of Diamox Sequels (sustained-release capsules) is 1 capsule (500 milligrams) twice a day, usually in the morning and evening.

Uses of Diamox:

• Diamox is used as an addition to regular glaucoma treatment.
• It is also used as a part of some treatment plans for congestive heart failure and seizure disorders.
• Acetazolamide may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
• Acetazolamide reduces the activity of this protein.

Side Effects of Diamox:

Like all drugs, Diamox may have unwanted side effects. Some common side effects reported with this medicine include:

• A sore throat or a fever.
• Allergic reactions.
• Dizziness.
• Decreased appetite.
• Pins and needles (paraesthesia).
• Drowsiness.
• Tingling or tremors in your hands or feet.
• Confusion.
• Alteration in taste.
• Increased production of urine (polyuria).
• Rashes.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.

Warnings and precautions before taking Diamox:

• This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.
• Individuals taking this medicine are advised to monitor blood cell counts regularly.
• Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery if this medication makes you dizzy or drowsy.
• Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a sulfa-based drug such as sulfamethoxazole (e.g., Bactrim, Septra, Gantanol).
• Before taking acetazolamide, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease.
• If you have emphysema or other breathing disorders, use Diamox with caution.
• Do not take acetazolamide without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Drug Interaction:

Diamox modifies phenytoin metabolism with increased serum levels of phenytoin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Diamox with the following:

• Amitriptyline (Elavil)
• Amphetamines such as Dexedrine
• Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
• Quinidine (Quinidex)
• Oral diabetes drugs such as Micronase.

Overdosage:

• After taking Diamox, If you feel that overdose is suspected, then contact with your doctor immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea and vomiting , confusion, drowsiness, or rapid breathing.
• US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222.
• Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.

If you like this page, please post it on: