What is Diamox (Acetazolamide) used for?

Diamox (Acetazolamide) is an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor prescribed to treat patients suffering from closed angle glaucoma, open angle glaucoma, or secondary glaucoma. The medication operates by reducing the activity of carbonic anhydrase in the body to reduce pressure of fluid within the eye. This effect may also make it useful for treating water retention (edema) or epilepsy in some cases.

How should I use Diamox (Acetazolamide)?

Always use Diamox (Acetazolamide) according to the instructions of your physician to get the most effective results from treatment. The normal dosage is one tablet administered once to four times daily. Your individual directions will be based on the condition being treated, your current health, and the severity of your symptoms. These should be swallowed with a large glass of water and may be taken on an empty stomach, although a meal is recommended before use if you experience nausea. Do not crush or chew the tablets to avoid destroying or altering the effects of their contents.

What are the side effects of Diamox (Acetazolamide)?

The use of Diamox (Acetazolamide) may cause side effects in some patients such as:

• Headaches
• Confusion
• Appetite loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Upset stomach, constipation, or diarrhea
• Mild tremors
• Increased sensitivity of the skin to light
• Gout or worsening of gout symptoms
• Loss of control of blood sugar levels
• Mild vision problems
• Tinnitus (Ringing in the ears)

More serious side effects that may occur during treatment include fever, sore throat, groin pain, increased skin sensitivity, severe skin rash, or signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, swelling, or trouble breathing. Immediately inform your physician about any symptoms you experience that are intense or worrying to you as they may require changes to your dosage to prevent further problems. These may include reduced dosages, application frequency, or immediate medical attention in more serious cases.

Please Note

Do not begin using Diamox (Acetazolamide) if you are pregnant, allergic to sulphonamide medications, or if you have underactive adrenal glands, hyperchloremic acidosis, severe kidney disease, or severe liver disease. This medication should also not be used as a long term treatment of chronic non-congestive angle-closure glaucoma. Also disclose to your physician if you are elderly or have unstable electrolyte levels, history of kidney stones, trouble breathing, urinary retention, or decreased liver or kidney function. These conditions may require reduced dosages or other adjustments to your treatment to prevent potential health problems from appearing.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Diamox (Acetazolamide). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.