Capsule, Tablet

Novopharm, Wyeth-Ayerst

Diamox (acetazolamide) is used with other medications to treat certain kinds of glaucoma and fluid retention in the inner eye. It is also used to treat or prevent symptoms of mountain sickness and in the treatment of convulsions (seizures) in epilepsy.

Do not take Diamox (acetazolamide) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Diamox (acetazolamide) you have serious liver or kidney disease, including cirrhosis you have low blood levels of sodium or potassium you have excessive chloride in your blood you have angle-closure glaucoma.

Before using Diamox (acetazolamide), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any other prescription medicine, nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement if you are taking high doses of aspirin if you have lung disease or difficulty breathing if you have any other medical condition

Presence of other medical conditions like diabetes, emphysema, gout, low blood levels of potassium or sodium, kidney disease, liver disease and underactive adrenal gland may affect the use of Diamox (acetazolamide). In some people Diamox (acetazolamide) may cause drowsiness, dizziness, feeling of excessive tiredness or lightheadedness. Make sure you know how you react to Diamox (acetazolamide) before you drive, use machines, or perform any jobs else that could be dangerous if your level of alertness is impaired.

Other:  Drowsiness; confusion; sensitivity to sunlight; fever.

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depends on many factors, including the condition being treated, your age, and weight. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Diamox (acetazolamide) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. Take Diamox (acetazolamide) as prescribed by your health care provider. Do not crush or chew sustained-release capsules. Swallow them whole. Drink plenty of water or fluids while taking Diamox (acetazolamide). If you are also taking high doses of aspirin with Diamox (acetazolamide), contact your doctor if any of the following occur: Loss of appetite; fast breathing; lack of energy. Larger doses do not increase Diamox (acetazolamide)'s effects, but may increase its side effects. Contact your doctor at once if any of the following occur: Allergic reaction (rash; hives; fever; crystals in the urine; infection [fever, chills, sore throat]). Temporary changes in vision have occurred. This stops when you stop taking Diamox (acetazolamide). Diamox (acetazolamide) may cause drowsiness. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Diamox (acetazolamide) may cause sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid long periods of exposure to sun. Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing. Lab tests may be required to monitor therapy. Be sure to keep appointments. Do not stop taking Diamox (acetazolamide) without checking with your doctor. Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor or health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Diamox (acetazolamide). Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your doctor. This includes any herbal preparations or dietary supplements. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than one dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Store Diamox (acetazolamide) at controlled room temperature (between 59 to 86 degrees F).