DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Dichlorphenamide tablets

December 11, 2019

Dichlorphenamide tablets

What is this medicine?

DICHLORPHENAMIDE (dye klor PHEN a mide) is used to treat certain types of periodic paralysis (muscle weakness).

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • confusion

  • falls

  • loss of memory

  • redness, blistering or peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

  • signs and symptoms of low potassium like muscle cramps or muscle pain; chest pain; dizziness; feeling faint or light-headed; palpitations; breathing problems; or fast, irregular heartbeat

  • signs and symptoms of increased acid in the body like breathing fast; fast heartbeat; headache; confusion; feeling weak or tired; nausea, vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • changes in taste

  • diarrhea

  • nausea

  • pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet

  • tired

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • high-dose aspirin

This drug may also interact with the following medications:

  • aspirin

  • certain antivirals for HIV or hepatitis

  • diuretics, like furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide

  • famotidine

  • laxatives

  • medicines for fungal infections

  • metformin

  • methotrexate

  • oseltamivir

  • penicillin antibiotics

  • probenecid

  • theophylline

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • adrenal gland problems

  • Cushing's syndrome

  • liver disease

  • lung or breathing disease

  • regularly take aspirin

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to dichlorphenamide, sulfonamides, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not get better or if they start to get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

You may need lab work done while taking this medicine.

Updated:  

December 11, 2019