Instructions for Acetazolamide Injections

Acetazolamide, or Diamox, is a prescription medication used for some types of epilepsy, fluid buildup or glaucoma. The medication is not given to patients that are pregnant or breast-feeding a child, as it can have adverse effects on an unborn child. According to Drugs.com, patients with kidney or liver disease or problems with adrenal gland problems should not take the medication.

Instructions

• 1

  Read over the patient's medical file. Look for health problems like kidney disease or liver disease. Pay attention to the medications the patient is currently taking. According to Drugs.com, Topamax, Xanax, Prozac, Azopt, Celexa and Lantus have moderate to major drug interactions with acetazolamide.

• 2

  Administer the injection according to the doctor's orders. The medication is injected directly into a vein, so it must be administered by a licensed professional. The prescription instructions will give a specific dosage and a time line for subsequent injections.

• 3

  Watch for adverse reactions. Reactions to pay attention to include confusion, drowsiness, allergic reactions like hives or swelling, odd bruising or bleeding, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, vision changes or weakness. In the case of allergic reactions such hives, rashes, swelling or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention for the patient.

• 4

  Patients taking acetazolamide should avoid aspirin or any medications that contain aspirin. Aspirin can cause bleeding and when combined with acetazolamide, the risk of bleeding is increased. The patients should only take aspirin if a doctor gives permission.