Diamox Er 500 Mg Capsule

DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE is an extended-release formulation of Acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd..

Name

• Common Name: Acetazolamide Extended-Release Capsule
• Brand Name: Diamox ER 500 Capsule

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Acetazolamide 500 mg.
• Inactive Ingredients: Microcrystalline cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, pregelatinized starch, talc, gelatin, sodium lauryl sulphate, titanium dioxide, ammonio methacrylate copolymer dispersion type A and B, FD&C yellow #6, and imprinting ink (shellac, potassium hydroxide, black iron oxide).

Uses

DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE is prescribed for a variety of conditions due to its mechanism of inhibiting the carbonic anhydrase enzyme, which helps in controlling fluid secretion and nerve activity.

• Glaucoma: Used to reduce elevated intraocular pressure in chronic simple (open-angle) glaucoma, secondary glaucoma, and preoperatively in acute angle-closure glaucoma, thereby preventing damage to the optic nerve and vision loss.
• Fluid Retention (Edema): Acts as a diuretic to help the body eliminate excess fluid in cases of edema, including cardiac edema and drug-induced edema.
• Epilepsy/Seizures: Used as adjunctive treatment for certain types of seizures by retarding abnormal, excessive discharge from central nervous system neurons.
• Acute Mountain Sickness (Altitude Sickness): Helps prevent and reduce symptoms such as headache, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath when ascending rapidly to high altitudes.
• Intracranial Hypertension: May be used for conditions causing a serious increase in pressure inside the skull.

Dosage and Administration

• DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE should be taken orally, swallowed whole with a glass of water. It must not be crushed, chewed, or broken, as this can affect its extended-release properties and potentially increase side effects.
• It can be taken with or without food, but taking it at the same time each day is recommended for optimal benefits.
• The typical dosage for glaucoma is one capsule (500 mg) once or twice daily.
• For acute mountain sickness, a dosage of 500 mg to 1000 mg daily is recommended, initiated 24 to 48 hours before ascent and continued for at least 48 hours at high altitude, or longer as needed.
• Always follow the specific dosage and duration prescribed by your doctor based on your medical condition and response to the medication.
• Drinking plenty of fluids is advised while taking this medication.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Fatigue, tiredness
• Dizziness, lightheadedness
• Taste alterations (e.g., metallic taste)
• Increased urination
• Blurred vision
• Loss of appetite, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet (paresthesia)
• Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)

Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced):

• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)
• Severe skin reactions (redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth, fever, flu-like symptoms)
• Aplastic anemia (unusual weakness, fatigue, dizziness, easy bleeding or bruising)
• High acid level (trouble breathing, confusion, fast or irregular heartbeat)
• Infection (fever, chills, cough, sore throat)
• Kidney stones (blood in the urine, pain or trouble passing urine, lower back or side pain)
• Liver injury (right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools)
• Low potassium level (muscle pain or cramps, unusual weakness, irregular heartbeat)
• Sudden wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Thoughts of harming oneself

Precautions

• Contraindications: Avoid use in individuals with known severe kidney disease, severe liver disease (including cirrhosis), electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low sodium/potassium, hyperchloremic acidosis), adrenal gland problems, or a history of allergic reaction to acetazolamide or sulfa drugs.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy, and caution is advised during breastfeeding; consult a doctor.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness and drowsiness, so caution should be exercised when driving or operating machinery.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have lung problems (e.g., COPD), diabetes (monitor blood sugar closely), heart problems, or a history of kidney stones.
• Drug Interactions: Avoid concomitant use with methazolamide. Use with caution with aspirin and other salicylates, lithium, cyclosporine, methenamine, and certain other diuretics. High doses of aspirin with acetazolamide can lead to serious adverse effects.

Storage

Store DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE at room temperature, typically between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F), in a dry place. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.

DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE contains acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor used to treat various conditions by affecting fluid balance and nerve activity in the body.

What is DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE used for?

DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE is primarily used to treat glaucoma by reducing pressure in the eyes. It is also prescribed for fluid retention (oedema), including that caused by heart failure or certain medications, and as an adjunct treatment for specific types of epilepsy (seizures). Additionally, it can be used to prevent and reduce symptoms of altitude or mountain sickness, such as headache, dizziness, and fatigue.

How does DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE work?

This medicine works by inhibiting an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase. In the eyes, this action decreases the production of aqueous humor, which lowers intraocular pressure. For fluid retention, it acts on the kidneys to increase the excretion of bicarbonate, sodium, potassium, and water, thereby reducing fluid build-up. In epilepsy, it helps to slow down abnormal electrical discharges from nerve cells in the brain. For altitude sickness, it aids the body in adapting to lower oxygen levels at high altitudes.

What is the usual dosage for DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE?

DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE is typically taken once or twice a day, as directed by your doctor. The exact dosage depends on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment. It should be swallowed whole; do not open, break, or chew the capsule, as this can affect its extended-release properties. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it at the same time each day is recommended.

What are the possible side effects of DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE?

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, changes in taste, increased urination, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, loss of appetite, blurred vision, and a tingling or numbing sensation in the hands or feet. More serious side effects, though rare, can include allergic reactions (rash, swelling), severe skin reactions, aplastic anemia, metabolic acidosis (high acid levels in the blood), kidney stones, liver injury, or low potassium levels. Report any persistent or severe side effects to your doctor.

Is DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: It is generally advised to avoid DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. Your doctor will discuss the potential risks and benefits if treatment is necessary. Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding. While some studies suggest low levels in breast milk are unlikely to cause harm to infants at doses up to 1000 mg daily, a doctor's evaluation is crucial due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants.

Can DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE be taken with other medications?

DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE can interact with various other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal medicines, and supplements you are taking.

• Aspirin and Salicylates: Coadministration, particularly high doses, can lead to serious side effects such as metabolic acidosis, coma, or even death. Use with caution and under medical supervision.
• Lithium: DIAMOX ER can increase lithium excretion, potentially reducing its effectiveness.
• Methenamine: This combination may reduce the effectiveness of methenamine and form insoluble precipitates in the urine.
• Diabetes Medications: It can affect blood glucose control, requiring close monitoring if you have diabetes.
• Other Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: Concomitant use is generally not recommended due to potential additive effects.

What precautions should be taken while using DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE?

Do not take DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE if you are allergic to acetazolamide or sulfa drugs, or if you have severe kidney disease, severe liver disease (including cirrhosis), severe lung problems, electrolyte imbalances, adrenal gland problems, or certain types of glaucoma (chronic non-congestive angle-closure glaucoma). This medication may cause dizziness and drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how it affects you. It can also increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when outdoors. Regular monitoring of blood sugar, electrolytes, and liver function may be necessary.

What happens if a dose of DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE be stored?

DIAMOX ER 500 MG CAPSULE should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep it in a cool, dry place and out of reach of children.