Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking AZO as follows:
- AZO use tends to increase the blood sugar levels and can compromise the results on labs drawn. Report to your physician on your AZO intake, for any clarification on elevated blood sugar results. Individuals taking AZO must be aware of symptoms of elevated blood sugars, such as, trouble concentrating, frequent urination, headaches, weakness, and fatigue. Diabetic individuals taking AZO are at increased risk for poor blood sugar control and elevated blood sugar readings. Blood sugars must be closely watched, especially in diabetic individuals taking AZO, with log maintenance of everyday blood sugars. Blood sugar results and symptoms of elevated blood sugars should return to your normal, upon discontinuation on AZO intake. Report to your physician regarding any uncontrolled symptoms of hyperglycemia with AZO intake or continuing symptoms of hyperglycemia, even after discontinuation on AZO, so that, a change in plan of care could be considered.
- The metabolites of AZO along with the significant unmetabolized portion of the parent drug are excreted in the urine. Individuals with compromised renal function cannot excrete these compounds normally, which allows them to stay in blood circulation for longer time, resulting in toxicity and consequent side-effects. So, AZO could be avoided or used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function, with possible multiple dose adjustments, periodical monitoring for renal functions, and close watch for development of any dangerous side-effects and toxicity symptoms with the medication.
- Take the medication dose for the duration prescribed without fail, to derive the benefit of the medication.
