What is Dichlorphenamide?
Dichlorphenamide can be used to treat paralysis that occurs occasionally (loss of movement) caused by excessive or low levels of potassium in your blood. Dichlorphenamide is also employed for other purposes that are not covered in this medication guide.
Side effects of Dichlorphenamide
Seek medical attention immediately. If you notice symptoms warning signs of an allergic response (hives and breathing problems and swelling in your throat or face) or an extreme skin reaction (fever or burning eyes, sore throat or skin pain, an ailment that is purple or red that blisters and peels),
Dichlorphenamide may cause serious side effects. Consult your doctor immediately in the event that you experience:
- The very first indication of a skin rash, regardless of how slight;
- An accidental fall;
- The worsening of your paralysis symptoms;
- Lower potassium level: leg cramps, constipation irregular heartbeats, the chest fluttering, more thirst or urination tingling or numbness, muscular weakness, a limp sensation,
- Indications of too much acid in your blood: irregular heartbeats, tiredness, feeling hungry and having trouble concentrating, or feeling tired and short of breath.
Accidental falls are more common for older adults and those who are taking large levels of dichlorphenamide. Be cautious to avoid accidentally causing an injury or falling while taking dichlorphenamide.
Common side effects of dichlorphenamide can include:
- Drowsiness;
- Confusion;
- Numbness or tingling
- Taste perception is altered.
This isn't an exhaustive list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Follow the directions on your prescription label and on the label of your package. Be sure to inform your health care providers about your medical ailments and allergies, as well as any medications you take.
Before you take this drug
Dichlorphenamide should not be used in the event that you are allergic to it or are suffering from
- Serious breathing problems;
- The liver condition;
- An allergy to sulfa medications a sulfa drug allergy
- If you take aspirin in large doses,
Speak to your doctor if you have ever suffered from:
- Metabolic acidosis (high levels of acid in your blood) (or
- An electrolyte imbalance (such as low concentrations of magnesium, potassium, or magnesium in the blood)
Do not use dichlorphenamide when you are expecting. Dichlorphenamide may cause metabolic acidosis, which can affect the unborn baby when you suffer from the condition during pregnancy. Consult your physician in the event that you become pregnant while taking dichlorphenamide.
It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor regarding any risks.
How to take Dichlorphenamide?
Follow all the instructions on the prescription label and review all medication guides and instructions sheets. Your doctor may change the dosage. Follow the medication precisely as directed.
Contact your doctor immediately. If you experience falls that are accidental during your treatment with dichlorphenamide, Your dosage may have to be adjusted.
You might require medical tests to assist your doctor in determining the length of time you should be treated with dichlorphenamide.
Place it in a cool, dry place free of heat and moisture.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Primary Periodic Paralysis:
Initial dose: 50 mg taken orally twice daily. The initial dosage can be reduced or increased depending on the individual's response at weekly intervals (or earlier in the event of an adverse reaction).
The maximum dose is 200 mg per day.
Comment:
Primary hyperkalemic periodic paralysis and the related variants comprise an extremely diverse group of conditions, and the treatment reaction to this medication may differ. Doctors should determine the response of patients to this drug at the end of 2 months of treatment to determine whether treatment should continue.
Use: In the treatment of primary hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, first hypokalemic periodic paralysis, and other related variations
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do not take the medicine for as long as you can. However, do not take your missed dosage if you are close to the time of the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.
What happens if I overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact for help at the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222.
The symptoms of an overdose can include drowsiness, dizziness, vomiting, and an appetite loss, as well as tremors and an inability to maintain stability and coordination. It could also cause hearing in your ears.
What should be avoided?
Dichlorphenamide can cause blurred vision and a decrease in your ability to react. Avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities until you understand the effects this medication can have on your vision.
Interaction with other drugs
Inform your doctor about any other medications you take, including:
- Aspirin (including baby aspirin);
- Famotidine;
- Methotrexate;
- Theophylline;
- An anti-microbial or antifungal medicine
- Antiviral medication like Oseltamivir;
- A laxative; or
- Diuretic, also known as a "water pill," such as furosemide.
This list isn't complete. Other drugs can interact with dichlorphenamide. This includes medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. There are many possible interactions between drugs. are included here.
