Diazoxide
Diazoxide is a potassium channel activator that inhibits insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells by opening ATP-sensitive potassium channels. It also acts as a direct-acting vasodilator to reduce peripheral vascular resistance, thereby lowering blood pressure.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage must be highly individualized based on the severity of the hypoglycemic condition, clinical response, and patient tolerance. The typical pediatric dose range is 8 to 15 mg/kg/day, administered in 2 or 3 equal divided doses every 8 to 12 hours. Continuous monitoring of blood glucose, blood pressure, and fluid status is essential.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- 8 to 15 mg/kg/day (e.g., 24 to 60 mg daily, divided)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Commonly used in neonates and infants under close clinical supervision. Monitor closely for fluid retention and hypertrichosis.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 40 to 105 mg daily (divided)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Adjust dosage slowly based on frequent blood glucose monitoring and clinical efficacy.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 64 to 150 mg daily (divided)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Monitor fluid intake/output and watch for signs of congestive heart failure.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 88 to 225 mg daily (divided)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Doses should be adjusted dynamically to maintain euglycemia.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 128 to 300 mg daily (divided)
- Frequency
- Every 8 to 12 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Co-administration of a diuretic may be required if sodium and fluid retention occur.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | 8 to 15 mg/kg/day (e.g., 24 to 60 mg daily, divided) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Commonly used in neonates and infants under close clinical supervision. Monitor closely for fluid retention and hypertrichosis. |
| 5-7 kg | 40 to 105 mg daily (divided) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Adjust dosage slowly based on frequent blood glucose monitoring and clinical efficacy. |
| 8-10 kg | 64 to 150 mg daily (divided) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Monitor fluid intake/output and watch for signs of congestive heart failure. |
| 11-15 kg | 88 to 225 mg daily (divided) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Doses should be adjusted dynamically to maintain euglycemia. |
| 16-20 kg | 128 to 300 mg daily (divided) | Every 8 to 12 hours | Co-administration of a diuretic may be required if sodium and fluid retention occur. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) caused by hyperinsulinism (excessive insulin release) due to conditions such as islet cell hyperplasia, nesidioblastosis, or certain tumors. Also historically used intravenously to manage severe hypertension (hypertensive crisis).
Generic Name
DiazoxideBranded Drug Names
Diazoxide is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.