Diamox Side Effects

Diamox Side Effects
Photo Credit bathroom image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com

Diamox (acetazolamide) is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of glaucoma, an eye disease caused by increased pressure within the eye. This medication can also be used to treat symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, dizziness or fatigue. Diamox is administered orally as a tablet or capsule and should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. If you have questions regarding Diamox side effects, speak with your doctor or pharmacist before beginning treatment with this medication.

Stomach Upset

While receiving treatment with Diamox, you can experience stomach-related side effects due to this medication. Side effects associated with upset stomach can include nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite. You may also develop changes in your bowel movement habits as a side effect of this medication. You can begin to experience frequent excretion of loose, watery stools (diarrhea) or may find it difficult to pass a stool (constipation). Additional symptoms associated with diarrhea and constipation include abdominal cramping, bloating or pain. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice blood within your stools.

Increased Urination

Treatment with Diamox can cause you to urinate more frequently than usual. You may find that your bladder feels full more quickly than usual or that you need to go to the bathroom more often throughout the day. Increased urinary frequency can also cause increased thirst, as your body needs to replenish the loss of excess fluids. Side effects related to increased urination can include dry mouth or throat, which simulates your desire for fluids. Speak with your doctor immediately if notice that your urine contains blood or appears darker than usual or if you experience painful urination.

Taste Changes

Health professionals at Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed informational drug website, warn that certain patients can experience changes in taste as a side effect of Diamox treatment. Foods or fluids that you consume during Diamox treatment can taste abnormally bitter or bland. Such side effects are temporary and will subside once treatment with Diamox is completed.

Blurred Vision

Diamox can cause vision-related side effects to develop in certain people during treatment. You may experience blurred or double vision, which can interfere with your ability to walk or drive normally. Vision alterations can also contribute to additional side effects, including drowsiness, headache or confusion. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience dizziness, fainting or vision loss during treatment with Diamox.

References

Article reviewed by Carrie Last updated on: Mar 23, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments