Tolerance to diazoxide is usually good.
Severe adverse effects include sodium and fluid retention which may precipitate congestive heart failure in patients with compromised cardiac reserve. Usually responds to diuretic therapy.
Life-threatening episodes of pulmonary hypertension were observed in some neonates receiving diazoxide.2 Prematurity and higher diazoxide doses are risk factors for cardiovascular side effects.3
Severe hypotension can be controlled with sympathomimetic agents if necessary.
With prolonged use, hypertrichosis can sometimes be marked and distressing in young children, but will be reversible after treatment cessation.
Haematological side effects are very rare with the usual doses.
Overdose of diazoxide produces hyperglycaemia and possibly ketoacidosis which should be treated promptly with insulin and restoration of fluid and electrolyte balance.
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