Diamox is the brand name for the generic drug acetazolamide. This medication is used to treat patients with glaucoma, a type of eye disease. Diamox can also be used to limit and control symptoms associated with altitude sickness. Certain people should not take Diamox. Diamox contraindications should be discussed with a medical professional prior to treatment.
Low Potassium or Sodium Levels
Patients who have abnormally low blood levels of potassium or sodium should not take Diamox, RxList warns. Decreased sodium and potassium levels can occur in people who are dehydrated.
Kidney, Liver or Adrenal Gland Disorders or Diseases
Diamox should not be used to treat patients with kidney, liver or adrenal gland damage or disease. Patients with liver cirrhosis are at risk of experiencing liver swelling, or hepatic encephalopathy, following treatment with Diamox, DailyMed reports. Additionally, patients who have high levels of bicarbonate in their blood due to hyperchloremic acidosis should not take Diamox.
Chronic Non-Congestive Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Long-term treatment with Diamox in patients with a specific type of glaucoma, chronic non-congestive angle-closure glaucoma, is not advised, Drugs.com warns. Treatment with Diamox can worsen glaucoma in these patients, despite decreasing pressure levels within the eye. Consequently, it can be difficult for a doctor to detect advancing glaucoma in affected patients.
Acetazolamide or Sulfonamide Hypersensitivity
Patients who are allergic to acetazolamide or sulfonamides should not take Diamox, DailyMed reports. Use of this medication in hypersensitive patients can result in a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.
