Re: myoclonic seizures

Posted By CCF neuro MD MM on November 16, 1998 at 09:46:33:

In Reply to: myoclonic seizures posted by amy on November 15, 1998 at 17:40:37:






Have you ever heard of myoclonic type seizure activity as a side effect of the medication diamox. I am a pt. with hydrocephalus, and history of extensive neurosurgeries for other problems, but every time the neurosurgeons use higher doses (1000 mg or higher)of diamox, myoclonic like seizures appear. I know Diamox causes a metabolic acidosis, and notice whenever Im on it increased ventilation, and shortness of breath at times. In the past Ive had major electrolyte disturbances and acid/base problems from Diamox, but it works so well for the fluid, better than other diuretics. Can you comment on your experience or that of your coleagues. Thank you




I have reviewed the Medline database from 1966 to the present and there
has not been a single reported case of acetazolamide/ diamox exacerbating
myoclonic seizures in this or any other context, the search did yield a
number of examples of situations where diamox was used to TREAT myoclonic seizures however.
This is obviously an idiosyncratic reaction which is very rare, if you really
need to continue the drug I would suggest that you consider covering it with a drug
like Klonepin which has specific activity against myoclonic seizures