Diazoxide

About Diazoxide

Diazoxide is used to treat long term hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) 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.

Diazoxide is available in tablet and injection form.

It is also sometimes known as: Eudemine.

Before Taking Diazoxide

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 suffer from kidney or blood pressure problems
• if you suffer from gout or have a history of gout
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Diazoxide

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Try to take this medicine at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• You may also be given a diuretic, sometimes known as a water tablet, to prevent water retention.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Diazoxide contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Diazoxide.
• It is important that you follow any dietary instructions that you have been given by your doctor.
• Diazoxide may cause dizziness, particularly when getting up from a sitting or lying position. Getting up slowly should help.
• Before you have any form of treatment, including dental treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking Diazoxide.

If you are taking Diazoxide to treat Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar)

• You must keep your regular appointment with your doctor. You will need regular blood tests while taking this medicine. DO NOT stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
• You may need to test the levels of sugar in your blood to make sure your condition is being well controlled.
• Hypoglycaemia is likely to occur if you miss a meal, if you exercise more than usual, if you cannot eat because of sickness or if you drink a lot of alcohol.
• The symptoms to look out for include feeling anxious, cold sweats, confusion, headache, feeling sick, being sick, nervousness, palpitations (being aware of your heartbeat), shaking, unusual tiredness, or weakness, visual problems. Eat something containing sugar such as glucose tablets, biscuits or a sugary drink (not diet) to help raise your blood sugar.
• Severe symptoms of hypoglycaemia such as convulsions and unconsciousness require IMMEDIATE medical attention.
• Drivers should take special care on long journeys. It is recommended that blood sugar levels be checked every two hours. If hypoglycaemia occurs, you should wait at least fifteen minutes before continuing on your journey.
• Avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol or drinking alcohol on an empty stomach. Alcohol may produce low blood sugar and affects the control of your condition.
• Check with your doctor before taking up any physical exercise, as this will have an effect on your blood sugar levels, which can last for hours.

Can Diazoxide cause problems?

Along with their needed effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Loss of appetite, feeling or being sick, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, swollen ankles, rapid or abnormal heartbeat, shaking, headache, excess hair growth or muscle jerks.

You should also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any other side effects not mentioned in this leaflet.

How to store Diazoxide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 18/02/2005