Diamox (Acetazolamide)

Do's

• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 1 to 4 times daily if you are taking the tablets. 
• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 1 or 2 times daily if taking long-acting capsules (Diamox Sequels). The dosage of Diamox is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Acetazolamide may reduce potassium levels in your blood. Swallow long-acting capsules whole. 
• Take acetazolamide with or without food. 
• Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may recommend eating potassium-rich foods or prescribe a potassium supplement while you are taking this medication.   
• Start taking acetazolamide 1 to 2 days before climbing to prevent altitude sickness and continue while climbing and for at least 48 hours after reaching your final altitude. 
• Continue taking this medication while staying at a high altitude to control your symptoms. However, acetazolamide will not protect you from the serious effects of severe altitude sickness. 
• Use acetazolamide regularly as directed for conditions like glaucoma or seizures. Take it at the same time(s) each day to help you remember. 
• Consult your healthcare provider if you have questions about your dosing schedule or need further clarification. 
• Continue taking Diamox as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you feel well. 
• Consult your healthcare provider for more information. 

Don'ts

• Do not open, break, or chew the capsules, as doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects. 
• Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed by your healthcare provider. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. 
• Do not stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider, as some conditions may worsen when the drug is suddenly stopped. If you need to discontinue the medication, your healthcare provider will provide guidance on how to gradually decrease the dose. 

1. Common Side Effects:
   • Drowsiness
   • Dizziness
   • Headache
   • Nausea
   • Vomiting
   • Diarrhea
   • Loss of appetite
   • Increased urination
   • Altered sense of taste
   • Blurred vision
   • Increased sensitivity to sunlight
2. Less Common Side Effects:
   • Confusion
   • Ringing in the ears
   • Hearing loss
   • Increased body hair growth
   • Skin rash
   • Swollen glands
   • Fever
   • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

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

Before taking Diamox, it is important to be aware of certain warnings and precautions:

1. Driving and Alertness: Diamox may impair thinking or reactions. It's important to be cautious while driving or engaging in activities that require alertness.
2. Sun Exposure: Diamox can make you more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when outdoors
3. Drug Interactions: Diamox may interact with other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. It's important to inform all healthcare providers about the medications you are currently taking
4. Altitude Sickness: Diamox is sometimes used to prevent or lessen symptoms of altitude sickness. However, it does not protect against the serious effects of severe altitude sickness. If severe altitude sickness develops, descend as quickly as possible
5. Medical Conditions: Diamox should be used with caution in patients with conditions associated with electrolyte and acid/base imbalance, impaired renal function, diabetes mellitus, impaired alveolar ventilation, severe kidney disease, severe liver disease, or high-dose aspirin therapy