What is "diazoxide"

n. A potassium channel activator which causes local relaxation in smooth muscle by increasing membrane permeability to potassium ions, used as a vasodilator to treat hypertension and in diabetes to decrease the secretion of insulin.

n. vasodilator (trade name Hyperstat) used to treat severe hypertension [syn: Hyperstat]

Diazoxide ( INN; brand name Proglycem) is a potassium channel activator, which causes local relaxation in smooth muscle by increasing membrane permeability to potassium ions. This switches off voltage-gated calcium ion channels, preventing calcium flux across the sarcolemma and activation of the contractile apparatus.

In the United States, this agent is typically given in hospital.