ACETAZOLAMIDE

Drug Name: ACETAZOLAMIDE

ACETAZOLAMIDE DESCRIPTION:
ACETAZOLAMIDE - ORAL (uh-seet-uh-ZOHL-uh-mide)

COMMON ACETAZOLAMIDE BRAND NAME(S):
Diamox

ACETAZOLAMIDE SIDE EFFECTS:
ACETAZOLAMIDE may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days as your body adjusts to it. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position. Blurred vision, loss of appetite, itching, stomach upset, headache and weakness may also occur. If these symptoms persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: muscle cramps or pain, sore throat, skin rash, unusual bleeding or bruising, tingling of the hands or feet. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE ACETAZOLAMIDE:
ACETAZOLAMIDE: ACETAZOLAMIDE may be taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. Your dosage depends on your medical condition and response to ACETAZOLAMIDE. Take exactly as directed by your doctor. ACETAZOLAMIDE may reduce the potassium levels in your blood. A potassium supplement may be prescribed by your doctor. Consult your doctor about this.

ACETAZOLAMIDE USES:
ACETAZOLAMIDE is used for certain seizure disorders, glaucoma or altitude sickness.

ACETAZOLAMIDE PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: low sodium or potassium blood levels, adrenal gland problems, lung disease, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, any allergies. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery if ACETAZOLAMIDE makes you dizzy or drowsy. Acetazolamide should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. ACETAZOLAMIDE is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

ACETAZOLAMIDE DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially: lithium, digoxin, aspirin, cisapride, diuretics ("water pills"), amphetamines, methenamine, medication for depression, irregular heartbeats. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

ACETAZOLAMIDE OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea and vomiting, confusion, drowsiness, or rapid breathing.

ACETAZOLAMIDE NOTES:
Do not change brands of ACETAZOLAMIDE without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Not all brands of ACETAZOLAMIDE are equally effective. Do not allow anyone else to take ACETAZOLAMIDE.

MISSED ACETAZOLAMIDE DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

ACETAZOLAMIDE STORAGE:
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information on enrollment call Medic Alert(TM) at 1-800-854-1166. In Canada call 1-800-668-1507.