Generic name: Acetazolamide
Why is this drug prescribed?
Diamox controls fluid secretion. It is used in the treatment of glaucoma (excessive pressure in the eyes), epilepsy (for both brief and unlocalized seizures), and fluid retention due to congestive heart failure or drugs. It is also used to prevent or relieve the symptoms of acute mountain sickness in climbers attempting a rapid climb and those who feel sick even though they are making a gradual climb.
Most important fact about this drug.
This drug is considered to be a sulfa drug because of its chemical properties. Although rare, severe reactions have been reported with sulfa drugs. If you develop a rash, bruises, sore throat, or fever contact your doctor immediately.
How should you take this medication?
Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Diamox.
More common side effects may include:
Change in taste, diarrhea, increase in amount or frequency of urination, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, ringing in the ears, tingling or pins and needles in hands, feet and lips.
Less common or rare side effects may include:
Anemia, black or bloody stools, blood in urine, confusion, convulsions, drowsiness, fever, hives, liver dysfunction, nearsightedness, paralysis, rash, sensitivity to light, severe allergic reaction, skin peeling.
Why should this drug not be prescribed?
Your doctor will not prescribe this medication for you if your sodium or potassium levels are low, or if you have kidney or liver disease, including cirrhosis.
Special warnings about this medication.
Be very careful about taking high doses of aspirin if you are also taking Diamox. Effects of this combination can range from loss of appetite, sluggishness, and rapid breathing to unresponsiveness; the combination can be fatal.
If you have emphysema or other breathing disorders, use this drug with caution.
If you are taking Diamox to help in rapid ascent of a mountain, you must still come down promptly if you show signs of severe mountain sickness.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication
If Diamox is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Diamox with the following:
Amitriptyline (Elavil)
Amphetamines such as Dexedrine
Aspirin
Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
Lithium (Lithonate)
Methenamine (Urex)
Oral diabetes drugs such as Micronase
Quinidine (Quinidex)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The effects of Diamox during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Diamox may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Diamox is finished.
Recommended dosage for Acute Mountain Sickness
ADULTS
The usual dose is Diamox intake: in most cases, 125mg every 12 hours is enough (1/2 of the standard 250mg pill). Doses of this medication are often begun 1 or 2 days before attempting to reach high altitudes.
CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Diamox in children has not been established. Children under 10 years of age are not allowed above 3000 Metres A.S.L. on Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Overdosage
There is no specific information available on Diamox overdose, but any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
What is High Altitude
Acute Mountain Sickness
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
