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Diazoxide


Mechanism of action:

Diazoxide is a potassium channel opener and a benzothiadiazine derivative. It activates ATP-sensitive potassium channels in multiple cell types, increasing potassium efflux and causing membrane hyperpolarization. This inhibits voltage-gated calcium channels and ultimately prevents calcium influx. When intracellular calcium levels decrease, insulin secretion is reduced in pancreatic β cells, while vascular smooth muscle cells relax, leading to a reduction in blood pressure.

Reference(s):

1. Koch-Weser J et al. (1976). Diazoxide. N Engl J Med. 


2. Kirsten R et al. (1998). Clinical pharmacokinetics of vasodilators. Part I. Clin Pharmacokinet.

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