CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson,
Medication: Diazoxide
Your cat has been prescribed diazoxide for the treatment of hypertension or low blood sugar levels.
ℹ️Key points: • There are no licensed veterinary products containing diazoxide. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human drug to your pet which contains diazoxide. Your veterinarian will explain off-license prescribing to you. • Dosage: three times daily, as directed by your veterinarian.
ℹ️This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist. ⚠️Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Diazoxide (dy-ah-zox-syd).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing diazoxide.
Class of medication
- Direct vasodilator.
- Diuretic.
- Hyperglycemic.
Storage and Handling
- Store at room temperature.
- Shake oral liquids well.
Why has my cat been prescribed diazoxide?
Your veterinarian may have prescribed diazoxide for the treatment of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) occurring secondarily to a type of tumor known as an insulinoma. This medication may also be used to treat other conditions.
How is the medication given?
Diazoxide is given orally (as tablets or liquid). It is important to follow dosing guidelines carefully
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Reported side-effects include loss of appetite, vomiting and diarrhea. Rarer side-effects may include low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, inflammation of the pancreas, cataracts and bone marrow suppression. Contact your veterinarian if you feel your pet has any side-effects from this medication. Diazoxide should be used with caution in pets with congestive heart failure or kidney disease. Diazoxide may interact with certain drugs and use with the following drugs should be avoided wherever possible: phenothiazine and thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, drugs for hypertension, and phenoxybenzamine.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Diazoxide tablets and liquid should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused diazoxide safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the next dose is separated by at least 6 hours. If you accidentally overdose your pet, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice. Do not stop giving the diazoxide.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Diazoxide should only be given to the cat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice. If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center immediately.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on diazoxide?
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on diazoxide can be found on the package insert or via your veterinarian.Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing Diazoxide available in the UK and Europe.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing Diazoxide available in the US.