Dichlorphenamide tablets
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