3. Diazoxide

Diazoxide

  • Diazoxide is for the treatment of long-term low blood sugar levels due to too much insulin being produced by the body.
  • These tablets are usually taken 2 or 3 times a day.
  • Keep your regular doctor's appointments so that your progress can be monitored.
Type of medicine Thiazide
Used for Long-term hypoglycaemia
Very high blood pressure associated with kidney problems
Also called Eudemine®
Available as Tablets and injection

Diazoxide is used to treat long-term hypoglycaemia (low levels of sugar in the blood) caused by too much insulin being produced by the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that controls the levels of sugar in the blood. Diazoxide slows down production of insulin by the pancreas and so helps to prevent hypoglycaemia.

Diazoxide can also be used to treat very high blood pressure caused by kidney problems.

Before taking diazoxide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have heart disease or have a history of heart disease.
  • If you have kidney or blood pressure problems.
  • If you have ever had gout.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.
  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take diazoxide tablets exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • You will probably need to take your tablets 2 or 3 times a day. Try to take your doses at the same times each day to avoid missing any.
  • If you do forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
  • Diazoxide may cause your body to retain water and you may need to take diuretic tablets (also known as 'water tablets') to help you get rid of this excess fluid.
  • You may need to test the levels of sugar in your blood to make sure your condition is being well controlled.
  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored. You will need to have blood tests and your doctor will want to monitor your blood pressure regularly. Children will need their growth and development checked.
  • Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking diazoxide.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Feeling or being sick, loss of appetite This usually only lasts for the first couple of weeks of treatment. Eat little and often. Stick to a simple, well-balanced diet of non-spicy foods
Dizziness or faintness especially when you stand up Getting up slowly may help. If you feel dizzy, sit down for a few moments until the feeling passes
Shaking, stiff awkward movements, or unusual eye movements Tell your doctor about any of these
Swollen feet and ankles, fast heartbeat, fine body hair If any of these become troublesome, speak with your doctor

Important: if you experience any unexplained bruising or bleeding, sore throat or fever, speak with your doctor straight away.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
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Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version:
Last Checked: 21/10/2010 Document ID: 3762  Version: 22 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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