Diazoxide is used in the treatment of conditions in which the level of sugar in the blood is too low.
What is Diazoxide?
Diazoxide works by blocking the release of insulin from the pancreas, thus contributing to increase of the levels of glucose in the blood.
How should Diazoxide be taken?
Diazoxide can be administered orally (usually in the form of capsules or suspensions) or by injection into a vein.
Side Effects associated with Diazoxide
The possible adverse effects of Diazoxide may include:
- Diarrhea
- Increased hair growth
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Weakness
You should immediately contact a doctor if taking Diazoxide triggers any of the following symptoms:
- Rash
- Urticaria
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Tightness in the chest
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Excessive drowsiness
- Excessive hunger or thirst
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Frequent urination
- Breath that smells of fruit
- Sudden weight gain
- Sweats
- Swelling of feet or ankles
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Diazoxide
Diazoxide is not recommended for those with functional hypoglycemia.
Moreover, before starting treatment it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You have any allergies to the active substance, its excipients or other drugs (especially thiazides) or food
- You are taking other medications, herbal remedies and supplements, citing in particular hydantoins, sulfonylureas or diuretics
- You suffer (or have suffered) from heart or kidney problems, low levels of potassium in the blood, high blood pressure or aneurysms
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Lastly, during treatment it is important to follow the doctor's advice about nutrition.
