Diamox SR (Acetazolamide)

Do's

• You can take Diamox SR with or without food, but taking it with food may help minimize stomach upset.
• Take Diamox SR exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once a day. Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medication in your body.
• Diamox SR is a diuretic, which means it increases urination. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, especially when you first start taking this medication.
• Tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take, including prescriptions, non-prescription, and herbal products. Diamox SR can interact with certain medications.
• Diamox SR can cause electrolyte imbalances, so your healthcare provider may want to monitor your blood levels periodically.
• Diamox SR may increase sun sensitivity. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.

Don'ts

• Do not crush, chew, or break open the capsule, as this can affect the release of the medication. Swallow the capsule whole.
• Don't take more Diamox SR than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't abruptly stop taking Diamox SR, especially if you've been on it for a long time. Talk to your healthcare provider about tapering the dosage gradually.
• Don't take Diamox SR to prevent altitude sickness unless specifically directed by your healthcare provider. It's for treating certain medical conditions, not for routine prevention.
• Avoid excessive grapefruit or grapefruit juice consumption as it can interact with Diamox SR.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea
• Numbness or tingling, especially in the arms and legs
• Drowsiness, confusion
• Hearing problems, ringing in the ears
• Increased urination
• Altered sense of taste
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Increased blood sugar
• Increased sensitivity to the sun

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe skin reaction: fever, sore throat, swelling in the face or tongue, burning in the eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads, especially in the face or upper body, and causes blistering and peeling.
• Tingling of the hands/feet
• Hearing loss
• Unusual tiredness
• Easy bleeding/bruising
• Fast or irregular heartbeat

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Diamox sr, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Let your healthcare provider know if you have allergies to acetazolamide (the active ingredient) or any other medications, including sulfa drugs.

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing health problems, especially:

• Kidney problems: Diamox SR can worsen kidney issues.
• Lung problems: This medication can affect breathing in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema.
• Diabetes: Diamox SR can affect blood sugar levels, so monitoring may be necessary.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Diamox SR can cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or sodium.
• Liver problems

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Diamox SR.

Diamox SR should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

It is unknown if Diamox SR passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Do not take Diamox SR if you have a history of untreated low blood levels of potassium or sodium.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking Diamox SR to prevent dehydration.

Diamox SR may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Be cautious when driving, operating machinery, or performing any activities requiring alertness.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Diamox SR can interact with other medications.

Inform your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects, such as tingling in the hands or feet, numbness, or a metallic taste in your mouth. These could be signs of electrolyte imbalance.