Diazoxide
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Diazoxide
Summary
Diazoxide is used to manage hypoglycemia due to hyperinsulinism. This can happen in conditions like inoperable islet cell adenoma or carcinoma, extrapancreatic malignancy, leucine sensitivity, islet cell hyperplasia and nesidioblastosis.
Diazoxide works by inhibiting insulin release from the pancreas. This leads to an increase in blood glucose levels. It also has extrapancreatic effects and can cause fluid retention by decreasing sodium and water excretion.
For adults and children, the usual starting dose of Diazoxide is 3 mg/kg/day divided into 2 or 3 doses. The dosage should be individualized based on the patient's condition and response. Diazoxide should be taken orally.
Common side effects of Diazoxide include sodium and fluid retention, hyperglycemia, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and tachycardia. Serious adverse effects can include diabetic ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar coma, pulmonary hypertension, and thrombocytopenia.
Diazoxide can cause fluid retention which can lead to congestive heart failure. It can also cause ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar coma. It should not be used in patients with functional hypoglycemia and those with hypersensitivity to diazoxide or thiazides. Patients should be monitored for pulmonary hypertension, especially neonates and infants.
Indications and Purpose
How does Diazoxide work?
Diazoxide works by inhibiting insulin release from the pancreas, leading to an increase in blood glucose levels. It also has extrapancreatic effects that contribute to its hyperglycemic action.
Is Diazoxide effective?
Diazoxide is effective in managing hypoglycemia due to hyperinsulinism by inhibiting insulin release from the pancreas. It is used in conditions like inoperable islet cell adenoma or carcinoma and other related conditions. Its effectiveness is supported by its ability to increase blood glucose levels.
What is Diazoxide?
Diazoxide is used to manage hypoglycemia due to hyperinsulinism by inhibiting insulin release from the pancreas. It is effective in conditions like inoperable islet cell adenoma or carcinoma. Diazoxide increases blood glucose levels and is administered orally.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Diazoxide?
Diazoxide is typically used until the patient's condition stabilizes, which usually takes several days. If it is not effective after 2 to 3 weeks, it should be discontinued. The duration of use can vary based on individual patient needs and response to treatment.
How do I dispose of Diazoxide?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Diazoxide?
Diazoxide should be taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. There are no specific food restrictions mentioned, but it is important to follow any dietary instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
How long does it take for Diazoxide to start working?
Diazoxide begins to increase blood glucose levels within an hour of administration. Its effects generally last no more than eight hours in individuals with normal renal function.
How should I store Diazoxide?
Diazoxide should be stored at 25°C (77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°-30°C (59-86°F). It should be protected from light and stored in a light-resistant container. Always keep it in its original packaging until use.
What is the usual dose of Diazoxide?
The usual starting dose for adults is 3 mg/kg/day, divided into 2 or 3 doses. For children, the starting dose is also 3 mg/kg/day, divided into 2 or 3 doses. The dose can be adjusted based on the patient's response, with a maximum of 8 mg/kg/day. In some cases, higher doses may be required.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Diazoxide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is no available information on the passage of Diazoxide into breast milk. Due to potential adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or the drug, considering its importance to the mother.
Can Diazoxide be taken safely while pregnant?
Diazoxide should only be used during pregnancy if the condition poses a risk to the mother's life. It crosses the placental barrier and may cause fetal harm, such as hyperbilirubinemia and thrombocytopenia. Consult a healthcare provider to weigh the benefits against potential risks.
Can I take Diazoxide with other prescription drugs?
Diazoxide can interact with thiazide diuretics, enhancing its hyperglycemic and hyperuricemic effects. It may also displace protein-bound drugs like bilirubin and coumarin, increasing their blood levels. Caution is advised when used with antihypertensive agents, as it may enhance their effects.
Does Diazoxide have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Diazoxide can cause some adverse effects like fluid retention, increased heart rate, or changes in blood sugar levels. Serious but rare effects might include severe allergic reactions or heart problems, which need immediate medical attention. Always report new symptoms to your healthcare provider and consult them before stopping the medicine.
Does Diazoxide have any safety warnings?
Diazoxide comes with safety warnings, including the risk of fluid retention, which can lead to swelling or heart problems. It may also cause changes in blood sugar levels, so monitoring is essential. Be alert for symptoms like rapid weight gain, swelling, or difficulty breathing, and report them to your doctor. Regular check-ups are important to manage these risks.
Is Diazoxide addictive?
Diazoxide is not known to be addictive or habit-forming. There is no potential for physical or psychological dependence with this medicine. You can take it as prescribed without worrying about addiction. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for use.
Is Diazoxide safe for the elderly?
Diazoxide is generally safe for the elderly, but caution is advised. Elderly individuals may be more susceptible to side effects like fluid retention or changes in blood sugar levels. It's important to monitor these effects closely and consult a healthcare provider for any concerns. Regular check-ups are recommended to ensure the medicine is working safely and effectively.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Diazoxide?
Most people tolerate Diazoxide well, and occasional alcoholic drinks should not affect the way this medicine works. There are no well-established interactions between Diazoxide and alcohol that would interfere with the medicine's effectiveness or cause harm. However, it's always wise to drink alcohol in moderation and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Diazoxide?
Most people tolerate Diazoxide well, and it should not limit your ability to exercise. There are no known symptoms caused by this medicine that would affect exercise capacity, physical strength, or endurance. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms during physical activity, consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Is it safe to stop Diazoxide?
Diazoxide is often used for managing chronic conditions like hypertension or low blood sugar. Stopping it suddenly can lead to a return of symptoms or worsening of the condition. There may be no specific withdrawal symptoms, but the underlying condition could become uncontrolled. It's crucial to consult your doctor before stopping Diazoxide to avoid any potential risks or complications.
What are the most common side effects of Diazoxide?
Side effects are unwanted effects that can happen when taking a medicine. Common side effects of Diazoxide include fluid retention, increased heart rate, and changes in blood sugar levels. These effects might not happen to everyone and can sometimes be unrelated to the medicine. Always talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking Diazoxide?
Diazoxide is contraindicated in patients with functional hypoglycemia and hypersensitivity to diazoxide or thiazides. It can cause fluid retention, potentially leading to congestive heart failure. It may also cause ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar coma. Patients should monitor for these conditions and consult their healthcare provider if symptoms occur.
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