Diazoxide Choline
Diazoxide Choline is a potassium channel activator used primarily for the management of severe hypertension and hypoglycemia. It works by opening ATP-sensitive potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure, while also inhibiting insulin secretion from the pancreas.
A potassium channel activator used to treat severe hypertension and hypoglycemia by promoting vasodilation and reducing insulin release.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 2711542
- Generic
- Diazoxide Choline
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- Vykat
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of severe hypertension (especially hypertensive emergencies) and management of hypoglycemia, particularly in pediatric patients with hyperinsulinism. May also be used in conditions requiring blood pressure reduction when oral medications are not feasible.
As a potassium channel opener, diazoxide activates ATP-sensitive potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, causing membrane hyperpolarization, relaxation of smooth muscle, and subsequent vasodilation. It also inhibits insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells by closing calcium channels, which helps raise blood glucose levels.
May cause fluid retention, hyperglycemia, and hypotension. Use with caution in patients with cardiac or renal impairment. Not for routine treatment of essential hypertension. Requires monitoring of blood pressure, blood glucose, and electrolyte levels during therapy.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 28, 2026. · Read our editorial policy