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Diamox

Diamox

Acetazolamide

Acetazolamide tablets for glaucoma and altitude sickness. It reduces fluid buildup in the eye and brain by blocking a carbonic anhydrase enzyme.

Category
Eye Care
Active ingredient
Acetazolamide
Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet
Strengths
250mg

Diamox is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.

No prescription needed: we place your order for Diamox on your behalf.

Alternative names
acetazolamide
Therapeutic class
Carbonic Hydrase Inhibitor
Pharmacological class
Diuretic
Known off-label uses
idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Minor side effects
paraesthesia; nausea; taste perversion
Moderate side effects
polyuria; fatigue; drowsiness
Dosage forms
Tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Originator
Lederle Laboratories
Onset Time
1–2 hours
Duration
8–12 hours
Storage instructions
Store below 25°C.
Drug interactions
Aspirin; Cyclosporine; Lithium
Age restrictions
Approved for children and adults under medical guidance.
Contraindications

hypokalaemia; severe hepatic or renal disease; adrenal insufficiency; sulfonamide hypersensitivity

Serious side effects

agranulocytosis, requires immediate medical attention; Stevens-Johnson syndrome, requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

Acetazolamide tablets for glaucoma and altitude sickness. It reduces fluid buildup in the eye and brain by blocking a carbonic anhydrase enzyme.

Mechanism of action

Inhibits carbonic anhydrase, blocking the bicarbonate transport system to decrease fluid secretion in the brain, eyes, and kidneys.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Risk of fetal limb abnormalities in animal models. Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor.

Will I receive the original Diamox?

No. Diamox is the original brand, made by Lederle Laboratories, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient (acetazolamide) at the same strength. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.

How much does Diamox cost in South Africa?

It depends on the pack size. Diamox comes in a 250mg strength, in packs of 60 to 360 tablets, and the price of every option is shown above in rand, converted from US dollars. Larger packs cost less per tablet.

Payment and prices →

What is Diamox used for?

Diamox contains acetazolamide, used for glaucoma, altitude sickness and oedema.

How quickly does Diamox work?

Acetazolamide usually starts to work within 1 to 2 hours, and its effect lasts about 8 to 12 hours. This varies from person to person.

Does Diamox have side effects?

Yes. The common side effects of acetazolamide are paraesthesia, nausea and altered taste. Less common ones include polyuria, fatigue and drowsiness. Serious but less common side effects include agranulocytosis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which need urgent medical attention.

What does Diamox interact with?

Acetazolamide can interact with aspirin, ciclosporin and lithium. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before you start taking Diamox.

Do I need a prescription to buy Diamox in South Africa?

No, not online: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Diamox. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.

Ordering without a prescription →

Can I buy Diamox online in South Africa?

Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.

How ordering works →

What you will receive

Diamox names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.

  • A generic containing Acetazolamide at the strength you pick.
  • Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
  • Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.

How we compare medicine brands and generics