Virtual Medical Centre

Drugs

Diamox

Generic Name: Acetazolamide, Acetazolamide sodium
Product Name: Diamox

• Indication of Diamox
• Action of Diamox
• Dose Advice of Diamox
• Schedule of Diamox
• Common side effects of Diamox
• Uncommon side effects of Diamox
• Reference

Indication of Diamox:

Diamox is used in the treatment of glaucoma, a condition of the eye which may eventually lead to blindness if left untreated. It may also be used before and after surgery in acute cases of raised pressure within the eye.

Diamox can also be used in the treatment of epilepsy. This medicine has been found to be most effective in controlling a type of seizure known as an absence or 'petit mal' seizure.

If you are not sure why you have been prescribed Diamox, contact your doctor. 

^ top

Action of Diamox:

Diamox has multiple actions in the body. In the eye, Diamox works to reduce the production of aqueous humor, a watery substance designed to deliver nutrients and oxygen to the tissues of the eye. This helps to reduce the pressure within the eye, and prevents the progression of glaucoma. Like many antiepileptic drugs, the mechanism through which Diamox works in the treatment of epilepsy is not completely understood. Diamox appears to stabilize abnormal activity in the brain, and prevents the recurrence of seizures.

^ top

Dose Advice of Diamox:

• Diamox can only be obtained through prescription from a doctor.
• Doses for Diamox vary depending on what the medication has been prescribed for. Contact your doctor if you are unsure of the dose you have been prescribed.
• Diamox is best taken with or soon after food to reduce stomach upset.
• Diamox tablets are scored and may be cut in half for dose adjustments.
• Diamox can potentially interact with many other medicines - be sure to tell your doctor you are taking Diamox before being prescribed other medication or purchasing over the counter medicines.
• Diamox should not be used in patients with certain medical conditions - tell your doctor if you suffer from any medical conditions before taking Diamox.
• There is limited data available on Diamox in pregnant and breastfeeding women - it is important that you tell your doctor you are pregnant or breast feeding before taking Diamox.

^ top