What is Diamox?
Diamox decreases carbonic anhydrase, a body protein. This protein is blocked to reduce fluid buildup in the body. Diamox can be used to treat certain forms of glaucoma by reducing the fluid inside the eyes. This reduces the pressure within the eye. Diamox can also be used as a diuretic (water pill) in patients with congestive heart failure in order to decrease the accumulation of fluids in the body. Edema is the name for this buildup. Diamox can also be used for certain types of seizures and altitude sickness. Diamox can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.
Side effects of Diamox
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergy reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling on lips, face throat or tongue
Diamox may cause serious side effects. Diamox can cause serious side effects.
- Blood in the urine or stool;
- A seizure (convulsions);
- Loss of mobility in any part or parts of the body
- A blood cell disorder can cause sudden weakness, a sore throat, a fever, or pale skin.
- Liver problems: nausea, upper abdominal pain, swelling, fatigue, lack of appetite, dark-colored urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing skin or eyes);
- Signs of Metabolic Acidosis: confusion, vomiting, and irregular heartbeats
- Signs of kidney stones: pain in the side or lowerback; blood in urine; difficult or painful urination.
- Severe skin reaction: fever, sore throat, swelling of the tongue or face, eye pain, and a reddish or purple rash that spreads to other parts of your body, especially your face and upper part.
Diamox side effects may include the following:
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Numbness and tingling in the arms or legs, particularly
- Drowsiness, confusion;
- Hearing problems can be accompanied by ringing or a ringing sound in the ears.
- Increased urination
- Changes in taste
There may be other side effects.Call your physician if experiencing side effects; to report these, dial 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Diamox should be avoided if you suffer from cirrhosis or severe liver and kidney diseases, electrolyte disturbances, adrenal gland dysfunction, or a reaction to Diamox or sulfa drugs.
Before you take this drug
Diamox should not be used if:
- Cirrhosis, a severe liver condition;
- Severe kidney disease
- An electrolyte balance (such as acidosis or low potassium or sodium levels in the blood);
- Adrenal gland dysfunction
- Allergy to drugs containing sulfa
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure Diamox will be safe for you:
- Severe breathing problems
- Angle closure glaucoma;
- If you are also taking aspirin at high doses,
This medicine is unknown to cause harm to an unborn child. Inform your doctor of any pregnancy or plans to get pregnant.
Acetazolamide may pass through breast milk and harm nursing babies. This medicine should not be taken while breastfeeding. Diamox should not be used by those under the age of 18.
How to take Diamox?
Please follow all the instructions on the prescription label. To ensure you receive the best possible results, your doctor may change your dosage from time to time. Diamox should not be used in higher or lower amounts or for longer than prescribed. The dose you take will vary depending on what condition you're treating. Your doctor might tell you not to take Diamox if you are taking it for congestive cardiac failure. Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions. This medicine should be taken with water. Diamox may require frequent blood testing. Diamox is only one part of an overall treatment plan that could include additional medications. You should follow your doctor’s advice. Keep the bottle at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. When not in use, keep the bottle closed tightly.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as possible, take the missed dose.If your next dose is approaching quickly, disregard any missed ones and wait to take them as scheduled.You should not take more medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Reach out immediately if a poison occurs - call the Poison Control Hotline on 1800222-1222 for immediate medical intervention, or seek help immediately by dialling 1-800222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Diamox can impair thinking and reactions. Be mindful when driving or performing any activity which requires alertness. Avoid tanning or exposure to the sun. Diamox may make it easier to get a sunburn. When you're outdoors, wear protective clothing and use sunblock with SPF 30 or greater.
Interaction with other drug
Interactions with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbs, may occur.Inform all healthcare providers of all of the medications you currently are and plan to start taking.
