This information describes diazoxide and chlorothiazide suspensions, which are usually prescribed together. It explains how they are given and some of their side effects. Each person reacts differently to medicines so your child will not necessarily suffer every side effect mentioned. If you have any questions or concerns, please ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist or telephone one of the contact numbers on the information sheet.
This information should be read in conjunction with any patient
information leaflet provided by the manufacturer.
What are diazoxide and chlorothiazide?
Diazoxide is used to treat persistently low blood sugar levels
(hypoglycaemia) caused by the body producing too much insulin (hyperinsulinism).
It works by blocking the release of insulin by the body.
Chlorothiazide is a diuretic, that is, a medicine that increases the amount
of urine produced by the kidneys. It is used in conditions where the body
retains too much fluid, causing puffiness (oedema) especially around the eyes or
affecting the hands or feet. Chlorothiazide is commonly prescribed alongside
diazoxide, as a side effect of this medicine is fluid retention.
How are they given?
Diazoxide suspension is given by mouth two or three times a day.
Chlorothiazide suspension is usually given twice a day.
Please read our information on how to give your child liquid medicines for guidance or watch our video podcast.
Diazoxide and chlorothiazide suspensions are not readily available from your
community pharmacy. Neither medicine is available in the UK and so has to be
imported from abroad by a licensed pharmaceutical import company. Supplies of
these medicines may take longer than usual to obtain, usually several days.
- Currently, the Pharmacy department at GOSH obtains diazoxide suspension
under the brand name of Proglycem®. The packaging gives the strength of the
medicine as 50mg of active ingredient in 1ml of suspension, which is equivalent
to 250mg in 5ml. It also contains preservatives, colouring, flavourings and
sweetener.
- Chlorothiazide suspension is obtained under the brand name of Diuril®. The
strength of the medicine is 250mg of active ingredient in 5ml of suspension. It
also contains preservatives, colouring, flavourings and sweetener.
Who should not take these medicines?
People with the following conditions should discuss taking these medicines
with their doctor.
- Hypersensitivy to diazoxide, chlorothiazide or any of their ingredients
- Pregnant, could be pregnant, trying to become pregnant or
breastfeeding
What are the side effects?
If any of these side effects are severe or carry on for a long time, please
tell your doctor.
Diazoxide
- Loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting
- Raised levels of uric acid in the blood, retention of salts and fluid,
puffiness (oedema)
- High blood sugar levels
- Low blood pressure
- Irregular or fast heart rate
- Increased hair growth
Chlorothiazide
- Weakness and low blood pressure
- Mild upset stomach
- Changes in blood count
Interactions with other
medicines
Some medicines can react with diazoxide and/or chlorothiazide, altering how
well they work. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving your
child any other medicines, including herbal or complementary medicines. The
following are known to react with diazoxide and/or chlorothiazide so your child
will require regular careful monitoring.
Diazoxide
- Anti-hypertension medicines, including ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II
receptor agonists, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and some diuretics
- Alcohol
- Anti-depressants
- Anti-epileptics including phenytoin
- Anti-psychotics
Chlorothiazide
- Anti-diabetic medicines
- Anti-hypertension medicines as above
- Cholestyramine and colestipol resins
- Corticosteroids
- Lithium
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Important information
- Keep medicines in a safe place where children cannot reach them
- Keep the suspension at room temperature, away from bright light or direct
sunlight and away from heat. Do not store in a fridge.
- If you forget to give your child a dose and it is within a few hours of when
the dose was due, give it as soon as you remember. Otherwise, do not give this
dose but take the next dose when it is due. Do not give a double dose.
- If your child vomits straight after taking the dose, inform your local
doctor or nurse, as your child may need to take another one
- If your doctor decides that your child should stop taking these medicines or
they pass the expiry date, return any remaining suspension to your pharmacist.
Do not flush it down the toilet or throw it away.
Useful numbers:
- GOSH switchboard: 020 7405 9200
- Pharmacy department: 020 7829 8680
- Pharmacy Medicines Information: 020 7829 8608
- Endocrinology Clinical Nurse Specialist: ext 0360 or bleep 1016
Ref: 09F0376 © GOSH Trust October 2009
Compiled by the Pharmacy and Endocrinology departments in collaboration with the Child and Family Information Group
This information does not constitute health or medical advice and will not necessarily reflect treatment at other hospitals. If you have any questions, please ask your doctor. No liability can be taken as a result of using this information.
