When to take diamox for altitude sickness. Jul 22, 2025 · Altitude sickness in Peru is no joke.

When to take diamox for altitude sickness. Study selection Randomised controlled trials assessing For families heading to high altitude for vacation, there are a few easy steps that you can take to prevent altitude sickness in children. One common prevention method is the use of Diamox, a medication that can help reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. Diamox is a versatile diuretic that helps prevent altitude sickness. Are Altitude Sickness Pills Safe? For most people, acetazolamide is safe when used as directed. Acetazolamide and other medications used Altitude As we ascend to higher altitudes the pressure of oxygen in the air decreases. • The most important treatment Mar 4, 2025 · To prevent altitude sickness, take Diamox the night before traveling to higher elevations. In this noninferiority trial, although ibuprofen (acute mountain sickness [AMS] incidence: 62. Sep 15, 2024 · Does fitness level affect altitude sickness? Yes, being fit can help cope better, but anyone can experience altitude sickness. Airports in high-altitude cities mean that travellers can go from sea level to over 3350-3960 m (11 000-13 000 feet) in a matter of hours, putting themselves at risk for high-altitude illness (HAI). Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is characterized by headaches, gastrointestinal symptoms, dizziness, fatigue, and sleeping difficulties. This medicine is also used to treat seizures (eg, petit mal, unlocalized seizures). Diamox Price For most people, it’s generally recommended to start Jun 6, 2025 · Tip: Only take medication beforehand if you have a history of altitude sickness or have to make a planned rapid ascent to a high altitude. Symptoms of altitude sickness can occur as a result of the decreased availability of oxygen. I was deathly afraid of altitude sickness before arriving in Cusco. First-Day Protocol for New Arrivals Upon reaching Cusco or Aguas Calientes, prioritize these In this detailed article on Machu Picchu altitude sickness I have provided general information on the process of acclimatisation, an overview on altitude sickness, HACE and HAPE, as well as provided details on preventative medications like Diamox and natural remedies like coca tea. Diamox is a medication used for altitude sickness prevention, glaucoma, and epilepsy treatment. Altitude sickness is a condition that can occur when you expose your body to a higher elevation than it’s used to within a short period of time. Apr 26, 2025 · However, the change in altitude can also lead to altitude sickness, a condition that affects many travelers. It’s best to start Diamox 1 or 2 days before you climb and keep taking it for 2 days after you stop climbing. Jul 18, 2023 · Acetazolamide is used to treat altitude sickness (mountain sickness). 2. The severity Acetazolamide Altitude Sickness Prevention Guide Acetazolamide, often known as Diamox, is great for high altitudes. However there are risks associated with high altitude including developing altitude sickness, exposure to Jul 1, 2024 · 3. We have listed five alternatives to Diamox in dealing with AMS in this article. What is Diamox Used for Acetazolamide is a diuretic medication that treats Sep 26, 2020 · Abstract Background: Modern travel means that many travellers can arrive abruptly to high-altitude destinations without doing any trekking or climbing. In the UK, prescribing acetazolamide for travel is an optional service, not included in the general practitioner’s contract. Some GPs may decide not to prescribe acetazolamide on this basis, or because they feel it is outside the scope of their practice. Some believe that Diamox is a magical pill that guarantees a successful climb to high altitudes without any Apr 5, 2024 · Acetazolamide helps prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness, including shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and headaches. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. It is primarily used to treat conditions related to fluid retention, certain types of glaucoma, epilepsy, and altitude sickness. But is it as effective as they say? Altitude sickness hit me hard in Lobuche, took half a diamox before bed and half an hour later everything got better. If symptoms persist or worsen, descend immediately. Best Over-the-Counter Remedies for Altitude Sickness Altitude sickness can hinder your enjoyment at high elevations. Find out how Diamox can help with altitude sickness prevention and acclimatization during your trek to Everest Base Camp. Acetazolamide tablets can also be used in some cases to reduce your risk of developing acute mountain sickness. Among the manufacturers' recommendations, there is also a prophylactic use against the development of altitude sickness. Dec 7, 2022 · In this article on acclimatisation and altitude sickness we have provided general information on acclimatisation and a full outline on altitude sickness, HACE and HAPE, as well as set out best practice information on preventative medications like Diamox. Diamox has worked marginally well for me, if you actually take it as recommended (multiple days leading up to your trip and continously throughout). In this article, we’ll cover what Diamox is, how it works, and the common and rare side effects you should be aware of. Acetazolamide reduces production of fluid in the back of your eye, lowering eye pressure. (See also Precautions. Pain relief such as aspirin and paracetamol can be used to ease the headache, and drugs used for travel sickness such as prochlorperazine (Stemetil) can help relieve nausea and dizziness. It works best when you take it for several days before starting your ascent to elevation. ) is the best and safest way to avoid acute mountain sickness. But In the UK, prescribing acetazolamide for travel is an optional service, not included in the general practitioner’s contract. Delivered by injection or taken by mouth, Diamox can We can prescribe Acetazolamide tablets off-label to help prevent altitude sickness. Let’s start with the first life-saving drug: Has anyone taken acetazolamide (diamox) for altitude sickness? I'm going to be in Peru in July, spending time between 10000-19000 feet. […] NHS information about altitude sickness, including symptoms, treatment and how to prevent it. Consult a Doctor for Altitude Sickness Medication For many travelers, doctors will highly recommend medication before departing, to prevent and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness (or simply have it on hand, just in case). Sep 13, 2024 · Diamox Tablet Dosage Guidelines: Safe and Effective Use Diamox (acetazolamide) is a medication used in the treatment of several medical conditions. Nov 16, 2020 · How can I obtain acetazolamide and when should I start taking it? Acetazolamide requires a doctor’s prescription, and the typical dose for the prevention of AMS is 125 mg twice daily. This guide provides comprehensive information on how to navigate high altitudes effectively. Dec 27, 2024 · What tablet is used for altitude sickness? Diamox (Acetazolamide) is a medication used to prevent or lessen symptoms related to mountain sickness in climbers attempting rapid ascents or those experiencing mountain sickness despite gradual ascent. The medication works by causing the kidneys to excrete bicarbonate, creating a mild metabolic acidosis that stimulates While Diamox can be highly effective at combating the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS), it’s essential to understand its potential side effects of taking Diamox before deciding to use it. In people who haven’t taken Diamox before, there must be a home trial, of ideally two days, before travel to the area of altitude. When taking Diamox on Kilimanjaro, it is important to follow dosage instructions and understand the potential side effects. How does acetazolamide work (mechanism of action)? Abstract Hypoxia is the main responsible factor initiating the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in susceptible individuals. Discussion Acclimatisation to high altitude is a complex process and when inadequate leads to the pathological changes of altitude illness, including high-altitude headache, cerebral oedema, pulmonary oedema and acute mountain sickness. Introduction: Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can occur when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly. • The most important treatment Mar 4, 2025 · Acetazolamide is strongly recommended for use in adults and children. 125mg in the morning and 125mg in the afternoon. Acidifying the blood drives the ventilation Aug 7, 2024 · To treat or prevent altitude sickness Acetazolamide may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider. , Diamox is a prescription drug often used to treat glaucoma; however, it can also treat altitude sickness. Jul 20, 2018 · How to use Diamox Tablet? You can take Diamox with or without food. It can also help with glaucoma, edema (swelling), and epilepsy (a seizure condition). The primary purpose of Diamox is to prevent altitude sickness, although it does not provide a cure. Most people have never heard of it before and will be cautious about taking any drug while trekking or climbing in a remote region of the world. 22:5–13, 2021. Have you taken acetazolamide for altitude sickness? Does it work, can you recommend it? Feb 24, 2025 · There are 3 essential medicines Diamox (Acetazolamide), Nifedipine, and Dexamethasone (Dex) are used for treating high altitude sickness. Acetazolamide has been examined in more than 200 high-altitude studies in the past 50 years, 4 with the lowest effective dose for acute mountain sickness prevention According to the bottle you’re supposed to start taking it 1 day before reaching high altitude and then continue for at least 2 days. It can also be used to reduce symptoms of mountain sickness and improve the ease in breathing . Stay safe with Runway Health, which offers: Easy online questionnaires for physician approval Board-certified, U. Get prescription acetazolamide altitude sickness tablets from the Boots Online Doctor if you're going above 3,000m. Sep 15, 2022 · S ometimes an unnecessary debate is on between purists and non-purists about acclimatization on a high altitude trek. Jul 22, 2025 · Altitude sickness in Peru is no joke. Diamox is a medication specifically made to reduce the severity of acute mountain sickness. )If you are taking this drug for another condition (such as glaucoma, seizures), use this medication regularly as directed to get the most benefit from it. One medication that is commonly used to prevent and treat altitude sickness is Diamox, also known as acetazolamide. Altitude illness can begin to occur at 8000ft or lower still, but serious altitude sickness is rare below 10,000 ft (3000 m) in Himalayas of Nepal. However it’s important to first consult with your local doctor if this is a suitable option for you, or if there are any better alternative medications. Includes dosages for Edema, Glaucoma (Open Angle), Seizure Prophylaxis and more; plus renal, liver and dialysis adjustments. Apr 9, 2023 · Learn about Diamox for Everest Base Camp trek. When it comes to preventing altitude sickness, several key strategies can be employed to minimize the risk Aug 12, 2025 · Learn all about altitude sickness: symptoms, prevention, and treatment for safe hiking at high altitudes. Higher ascent, faster rate of ascent and a previous history of altitude illness increase the risk of altitude illness. As a Colorado based company with years of experience, we'll share with you the top six natural alternatives to Diamox and other top tips. Apr 12, 2024 · Taking Diamox before your trip to Denver can significantly lower your chances of experiencing altitude sickness. Seasoned travelers and local guides agree: strategic actions during this critical window help prevent altitude sickness before symptoms escalate. Gradual ascent to high altitudes (above 8,000 ft. Jan 17, 2016 · Diamox is a prescription medicine also sold under its generic name acetazolamide which can reduce and prevent altitude sickness (West, et al. The usual dosage is around 500 to 1,000 mg per day, divided into smaller doses. Understanding how to prevent and treat altitude sickness is crucial for a safe and enjoyable trip. Average symptoms and severity were similar between drugs, suggesting prevention of disease. It is often advised to start it 24 hours before going up to high altitude. For best results, you need to start taking acetazolamide a day or two before ascending to high altitudes and continue while you remain at altitude. May 29, 2020 · The carbonic anhydrase inhibitor acetazolamide is the most common medication used globally for prevention of acute mountain sickness, 1-3 a debilitating illness common in the tens of millions who annually ascend to high altitude. May 15, 2024 · Diamox (Acetazolamide) serves as a preventive measure and a treatment to manage or avoid the onset of altitude sickness. Jan 8, 2025 · Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that Diamox is highly effective in preventing altitude sickness. Read the most relevant research and pro's and con's here. Acetazolamide is often used after other medications have not worked in glaucoma. Acetazolamide: Acetazolamide, also known as Diamox, is a medication that helps prevent and treat altitude sickness. Used for: edema, epilepsy, glaucoma, hydrocephalus, mountain sickness / altitude sickness, pseudotumor cerebri, and more. May 29, 2025 · Are there alternatives to taking Diamox at High Altitude? Before we get into that, just remember the tried and tested drug is Diamox. Next day no sign of sickness but side effects for the next 2 days. Unlike dexamethasone (below) this drug does not mask the symptoms but actually treats the problem. Over-the-counter medications can alleviate symptoms and improve comfort. Here are some of the best options to consider when altitude sickness occurs. A high-altitude exposure (>2,750 m; >9,000 ft) for ≥2 nights, within 14 days before the trip, is useful but closer to the trip departure is better. 2 Jan 27, 2025 · Initiating Diamox a few days before ascending to altitude may further enhance its effectiveness in preventing altitude-related symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Burns et al1 compared ibuprofen (600 mg, peroral, 3 times per day, starting 4 hours prior to ascent) against acetazolamide (125 mg, peroral, twice a day, starting the night prior to ascent) during rapid ascent to 3810 m altitude (from 1240 m). Jan 27, 2025 · Initiating Diamox a few days before ascending to altitude may further enhance its effectiveness in preventing altitude-related symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Learn how to recognize, treat and prevent it. Check out this guide so you'll know how to prepare for it, prevent it, avoid it, and treat it. Altitude sickness occurs if your body hasn’t adjusted to low oxygen levels in the air. 1%), it was not Oct 22, 2015 · Diamox of late has become the preferred choice among trekkers. Continue taking it while you are climbing, for at least 48 hours after you have reached your final altitude. If you make gradual changes in altitude, you’ll help your body adjust to the thinner air and reduce your chances of developing symptoms. Whereas acetazolamide treats altitude sickness by aiding acclimatization, dexamethasone treats the symptoms only. Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor. In fact, up to half (50%) of individuals traveling above 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) will experience symptoms associated with altitude sickness. The following table summarizes how to take it for altitude sickness. This medicine is also used to prevent or make the Apr 26, 2025 · Diamox (acetazolamide) is a type of diuretic drug ("water pill") that promotes urination and helps remove excess water from the body. This action can help treat numerous medical conditions, including glaucoma, heart failure, and altitude sickness. Let’s start with the first life-saving drug: Sep 1, 2018 · There’s some evidence that taking acetazolamide (the former brand name of Diamox) two days before a trip and during your trip can help prevent altitude sickness. Background: Sea level natives ascending rapidly to altitudes above 1,500 m often develop acute mountain sickness (AMS), including nausea, headaches, fatigue, and lightheadedness. Diamox (Acetazolamide) helps your body adjust to high altitudes – a common traveler favorite. This medication is typically started 24 to 48 hours before you ascend to a high elevation, and It’s then continued for at least 48 hours after you’ve reached your highest point. Other sleeping pills like Ambien® or Lunesta® do not affect breathing at high altitude and are safe. When Acetazolamide (Diamox) entered the market in 1982, it was designed by drug maker Teva to treat Glaucoma. The number of people travelling to high altitude regions is increasing and many of these places are being easily reached by air, not Jan 26, 2024 · Altitude sickness can be a challenging condition for individuals ascending to high elevations. If gradual ascent and/or Diamox is used, this does not eliminate the need to descend if severe forms of high altitude sickness, HAPE or HACE should occur. How should I take or use Acetazolamide? Follow the instructions on your medication label and take the Should I Take Diamox For The Inca Trail? Diamox is a popular method for avoiding altitude sickness on the Inca Trail, and many do take it for great effects. It works by encouraging your body to adapt more quickly to high altitudes. Pick up from a store or FREE delivery. Aug 21, 2024 · How to prevent and treat altitude sickness in Cusco: Do's and Don'ts from Sorojchi pills and Diamox to deep-breathing techniques, elevation strategies and food. Altitude Sickness Prevention: When to Start Diamox for High Altitude Altitude sickness can be a serious concern for individuals traveling to high altitudes. Nov 23, 2023 · Like any other medication, acetazolamide (Diamox), the most commonly prescribed altitude-sickness medication, has potential side effects. Learn how Diamox helps alleviate altitude sickness symptoms, its dosage, and when to take it for prevention and treatment of high altitude sickness. It can also be used to help with altitude sickness prevention and treatment, to get rid of water retention (edema) and to relieve increased pressure in the eye. Diamox decreases susceptibility and reduces symptoms by speeding acclimatisation. However, there is often confusion about who should take it and whether it is really necessary for everyone. Climbers commonly use Diamox to delay the onset of symptoms and safely reach the summit. Symptoms generally occur at altitudes over 2,500 meters (8,202 feet), where the oxygen levels are low. Had shocking headaches everytime I went up in altitude so started taking them and it was a lifesaver, don't Altitude sickness medication, such as acetazolamide (commonly known by its brand name Diamox), helps prevent and reduce the symptoms of AMS. Many Trek Organizers insist their trekkers take a dose of Diamox before they come for the trek. Apr 28, 2025 · Essential Steps: How to avoid getting sick in Machu Picchu? Your first hours in the Andes directly influence how well your body adapts to elevation changes. Data sources Medline and Embase along with a hand search of selected bibliographies. Personally, outside of excessive urination I never had any side effects. Whether an avid climber or a vacationer, you may be seeking a natural alternative to Diamox as altitude sickness poses a significant challenge when visiting high-altitude regions. May 22, 2024 · Altitude illness medications are an essential part of managing and treating altitude sickness. Dexamethasone may also be used to treat the symptoms of mountain sickness and swelling in the brain. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of acetazolamide for the prophylaxis of AMS, and disclose factors that Ibuprofen was slightly inferior to acetazolamide for acute mountain sickness prevention and should not be recommended over acetazolamide for rapid ascent. If you start taking it after you’re already feeling ill at altitude it doesn’t usually help. This medication comes as a generic immediate-release (IR) tablet and extended-release (ER) capsule; the Oct 18, 2024 · Diamox (acetazolamide) is an FDA-approved diuretic medication commonly used to treat glaucoma, epilepsy, high altitude sickness, periodic paralysis, CHF, and idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). 3. If you’re planning to travel to an altitude of above 3000 metres, the treatment can help by speeding up the changes that your body makes to get used to lower oxygen levels. Dec 13, 2019 · Editor’s note: one benefit of guided travel in the mountains is the opportunity to learn from decades of experience in subjects like high-altitude medicine! Diamox (Acetazolamide): For our purposes, Diamox can be used for Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) prevention and treatment. This article is an approach to discussing travel and activity at high altitude, prevention of sickness, and acetazolamide prescription for Nov 22, 2023 · Altitude sickness can put a damper on your travel plans, especially if you’re headed to high-altitude destinations. Prevent elevation & altitude sickness with Acetazolamide (Diamox) patches - prescriptions from Runway Health for travelers. Is descent the best treatment for altitude sickness? Absolutely. This article is an approach to discussing travel and activity at high altitude, prevention of sickness, and acetazolamide prescription for Acetazolamide and dexamethasone can be used to pre-vent acute mountain sickness and high altitude cerebral edema, but only acetazolamide aids in acclimatization. Acetazolamide will not protect you from the serious effects of severe altitude sickness. Jul 24, 2025 · Detailed Acetazolamide dosage information for adults and children. It works by increasing the amount of alkali (bicarbonate) excreted in the urine, making the blood more acidic. Tackle hypoxia and feel good about taking your high-elevation activity head-on. This usually equates to half a (250mg) tablet, taken in the morning and again in the evening before sleep. This lets your body get used to the lower oxygen. Jul 10, 2023 · Are there alternatives to taking Diamox at High Altitude? Before we get into that, just remember the tried and tested drug is Diamox. As recommended by the CDC, a dosage of 125 mg of Diamox is Sep 13, 2024 · Diamox Tablet Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Precautions Diamox is a prescription medication that contains Acetazolamide, a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. It is also used to treat open-angle glaucoma, secondary glaucoma, and acute angle-closure glaucoma before surgery to lower pressure inside the eye. You can also take acetazolamide to help prevent the onset of altitude sickness symptoms. It works as a diuretic and stimulates urine production. Many climbers report fewer headaches, better sleep at altitude, and an overall improved experience. Airports in high-altitude cities mean that travellers can go from sea level to over 3350–3960 m (11 000–13 000 feet) in a matter of hours, putting themselves at risk for high-altitude illness (HAI). This guide teaches travelers how it helps lower sickness signs. Check out all our upcoming trips. Are there medications for altitude sickness? Yes, Diamox is common, but always consult a doctor. After preemptively taking Diamox on my travel day, I decided I did not like how it made me feel, and I wanted to see how the altitude would affect me. Get safe trekking tips and prevention advice for high altitudes. Diamox (acetazolamide) is one of the few treatments for elevation sickness available by prescription from a doctor. To prevent altitude sickness, start taking Diamox 1 to 2 days before you start to climb. Acetazolamide (Diamox®) taken 24 hours prior to arrival to altitude and the first 2 days at altitude is 75% effective in preventing AMS. You’ll learn about proper dosages, its effects, side effects, and other ways to manage. Aug 7, 2025 · Take Diamox – Altitude Sickness Acetazolamide In the U. Understanding Altitude Sickness Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS Diamox is the new wonder drug, leading the fight against altitude sickness, the biggest killer on Kili. This action helps relieve pressure in the eyes for glaucoma, manages symptoms of altitude sickness, and addresses fluid buildup in edema Jan 3, 2025 · Reducing fluid buildup in your brain and lungs, which can contribute to severe altitude sickness symptoms. Here are three main medications used for this purpose: 1. There are several types of medications commonly used to alleviate the symptoms of altitude illness. It's best to increase your altitude gradually rather than to rely on medication to help with altitude sickness. Jun 9, 2024 · Mountain sickness can be prevented with a medicine called Acetazolamide before reaching a high altitude. Although the body can adapt to this change (or acclimatise) it can take time. , 2007). It belongs to a group of drugs called carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, which reduce fluid formation in the body. Altitude sickness is a condition that affects people that live, work or travel to high altitudes. Apr 23, 2025 · Participate in only mild exercise for the first 48 hours at altitude. How Do You Take Diamox for Altitude Sickness? You should start taking Diamox 24-48 hours prior to exposure to high altitude. Aug 11, 2025 · Learn the best time and dosage to take Diamox for altitude sickness while trekking in Nepal. Diamox, also known as Acetazolamide, is a prescription medication that comes to the rescue in these situations. They feel it is better to acclimatize naturally and ascend slowly with breaks – giving the body sufficient time to get used to the higher altitude. trial acetazolamide for two days before ascent to high altitude because side effects can resemble the symptoms of AMS check local guidelines for processes on prescribing acetazolamide for travel cautions Dec 5, 2023 · Prevention Is Better Than Cure The good news is that altitude sickness is very preventable. It is particularly useful in situations when you cannot make a slow ascent. Acetazolamide works to prevent altitude sickness by altering the pH level in your blood. Diamox, scientifically known as acetazolamide, is a medication primarily used to prevent and reduce the severity of altitude sickness. Below, we explore 7 scenarios where taking Diamox is highly recommended – ensuring you’re well-prepared for your high-altitude journey. Acetazolamide and dexamethasone can be used to pre-vent acute mountain sickness and high altitude cerebral edema, but only acetazolamide aids in acclimatization. The drug acetazolamide (Diamox), which is used to treat fluid retention and makes you urinate, can be used for the treatment of minor altitude sickness. Apr 24, 2025 · From the Guidelines Altitude sickness prophylaxis should begin with acetazolamide (Diamox) as the primary medication, taken at a dose of 125mg twice daily, starting 24 hours before ascent and continuing for 48 hours after reaching the target altitude, as recommended by recent studies 1. Jan 2, 2020 · Modern travel means that many travellers can arrive abruptly to high-altitude destinations without doing any trekking or climbing. Dexamethasone is a potent steroid hormone that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent to treat brain edema. When and How Much to Take Diamox may be used for prophylaxis according to two schemes: when symptoms of altitude Oct 25, 2014 · 5) How should I take Diamox? The dose of Diamox to prevent altitude sickness is 125mg twice a day. Jul 22, 2024 · Be alert to the signs of altitude sickness. The CDC and Acibadem think it’s essential for mountain sickness. Stay healthy and enjoy your adventure. Symptoms of altitude sickness can range from mild to severe and can include headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. What Is The Inca Trail Elevation Gain? We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. If you are on acetazolamide, you should have discussed surgery and laser with your doctor. 2%) was worse than acetazolamide (51. Acetazolamide (Diamox) Acetazolamide, known as Diamox, helps your body acclimate to high altitudes by improving oxygen adaptation Aug 21, 2023 · Altitude sickness is when your body can’t adjust to increases in altitude. Sep 17, 2018 · There's been debate about whether Diamox should be used to prevent altitude sickness. What is Acetazolamide for? Acetazolamide is usually used to control seizures (fits) and other problems related to the nervous system. Learn about Acetazolamide, its uses for glaucoma, altitude sickness, and epilepsy, dosage guidelines, side effects, drug interactions, and safety tips. Apr 15, 2020 · • Acetazolamide and dexamethasone can be used to prevent acute mountain sickness and high altitude cerebral edema, but only acetazolamide aids in acclimatization. However, it’s important to note that Diamox does not cure altitude sickness. Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a benign and self-limiting syndrome, but can progress to life-threatening conditions if leave untreated. This medication can decrease headache, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath that can occur when you climb quickly to high altitudes (generally above 10,000 feet/3,048 meters). High Alt Med Biol. Again, dexamethasone has Mar 29, 2021 · Altitude, acute mountain sickness, and acetazolamide: recommendations for rapid ascent. Our high altitude doctors and specialists recommend taking Diamox from the first day of your trip. Know how it works, when to take it, and safety tips before use. Whether or not to take altitude sickness tablets on Kilimanjaro is a question you are going to face when you start your preparations to reach Altitude and Travel Introduction Altitude sickness Acute Mountain Sickness HACE and HAPE Pre-existing medical conditions Pregnancy Other considerations at altitude Further Information Introduction Travelling to destinations at high altitude can be exciting, challenging and rewarding. Oct 18, 2012 · Objectives To assess the efficacy of three different daily doses of acetazolamide in the prevention of acute mountain sickness and to determine the lowest effective dose. The typical recommendation is to start taking acetazolamide one day before your exposure to high altitude and continue usage throughout your trip. The purists feel that using drugs like Diamox to accelerate acclimatization goes against the spirit of trekking. Jul 28, 2025 · Consider medication: Consult a travel doctor about medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) for altitude sickness prevention. Aug 14, 2019 · Acetazolamide is sometimes used for altitude sickness or weight cutting, and it’s important for athletes to realize that this diuretic is prohibited in sport at all times. You may need to continue taking this medication while staying at People who are allergic to sulfonamide should not take Diamox. It helps in reducing the shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, fatigue and headaches, which commonly occur at high altitude. As a result, you’ll need to take more breaths per The Drugs Most Commonly Used: Acetazolamide (Diamox): This is the most tried and tested drug for altitude sickness prevention and treatment. Acetazolamide is contraindicated for those travellers who are on aspirin therapy or pregnant/nursing women. Acetazolamide is used to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. Athletes who have previously had AMS, HAPE (high altitude pulmonary oedema) or HACE (high altitude cerebral oedema) are 12 times more likely to develop symptoms on return to altitude and in this group the use of prophylactic Diamox (Acetazolamide) is recommended. While Diamox can have benefits for climbing Kilimanjaro, there are also risks to consider and alternative medications available. We hypothesized that pre-treatment with acetazolamide the day before arrival at high altitude would elicit improved Oct 15, 2023 · Diamox is prescribed for the treatment of cerebral edema and glaucoma, as well as other diseases and conditions, including the treatment of altitude sickness. -licensed healthcare providers Fast, free delivery to your door FDA-approved malaria prevention medication Hands-on support before Jul 24, 2025 · Diamox: side effects, dosage, interactions, FAQs, reviews. If you pop one the night before or once you feel bad it won't do much of anything. Dec 22, 2021 · We evaluated the efficacy of acetazolamide in preventing adverse altitude effects in patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and in healthy lowlanders 40 years Feb 10, 2025 · Acetazolamide, or what is commonly sold under the trade name Diamox, is a drug that is used for various medical treatments – including glaucoma, sleep apnea, epilepsy and hypertension. Know when to descend: If symptoms worsen, descend to a lower altitude to alleviate the effects. However, it can still provide some benefit if you take it on the day that you start increasing your altitude. It is also used to help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness. It works by accelerating the acclimatization process, allowing your body to adjust more quickly to high altitudes. Adventurers accidentally discovered Diamox can help overcome the high Kilimanjaro altitude by acclimating them to the effects of low oxygen pressure, which is the cause of acute mountain sickness (AMS). Nov 5, 2024 · Diamox, also known as acetazolamide, has been used for decades to prevent and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. Should you use Diamox while trekking at high altitude? Diamox will always appear as a most asked question for anyone looking to trek to Everest Base Camp or climb Kilimanjaro and for good reason. More severe forms of altitude sickness have been identified. In the table below we will describe the most common side effects and the likelihood of getting them. Diamox, a medication known for its effectiveness in preventing altitude sickness, operates through specific mechanisms to mitigate the symptoms associated with reduced oxygen levels at higher altitudes. However, knowing when to start taking Diamox is crucial in order to maximize its effectiveness. Acetazolamide (Diamox) is an effective drug for preventing altitude sickness. May 31, 2018 · Help prevent mountain sickness by slow ascents ≤500 m/day, rest days every third day, and avoid over-exertion The most important treatment for altitude sickness is descent to a lower, more oxygen-rich environment Acetazolamide 125 mg twice daily can be prescribed as prophylaxis for those at risk Mar 3, 2025 · From the Guidelines Acetazolamide (Diamox) is recommended for preventing acute mountain sickness (AMS) at a dose of 125-250 mg twice daily, starting 24-48 hours before ascent and continuing for 48 hours after reaching your final altitude, as supported by recent studies 1. Feb 8, 2025 · Discover vital tips for managing Acute Mountain Sickness and HAPE at high altitude sickness to ensure safe trekking in 2025. To prevent altitude sickness, take Diamox the night before traveling to higher elevations. Has anyone taken acetazolamide (diamox) for altitude sickness? I'm going to be in Peru in July, spending time between 10000-19000 feet. Acetazolamide can have side effects such as tiredness, stomach upset, and sometimes numbness and tingling of the face, arms, or legs. The best ways to prevent altitude sickness are May 15, 2024 · Diamox (Acetazolamide) serves as a preventive measure and a treatment to manage or avoid the onset of altitude sickness. Consider taking Acetazolamide (Diamox) for prevention of AMS in unavoidable rapid ascents, particularly if there is a past history of AMS. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a first-time hiker, understanding altitude sickness is crucial for your safety and well-being. Mar 20, 2012 · Ibuprofen, an anti-inflammatory medication often used as a painkiller, was found to significantly reduce the incidence of altitude sickness in a new study. Learn more about altitude sickness prevention, symptoms, and treatment options. Avoid over-exertion for 1-2 days after arrival to altitude. I live at sea level. S. Apr 28, 2022 · advise people to take the second dose of acetazolamide at dinnertime rather than at bedtime as it is a diuretic. Altitude sickness can strike even the fittest of trekkers and while without a doubt the best way to acclimatize is to go slowly, giving your body time to adapt, there is a medication called Diamox that can help this process. It has also been known to cause allergic reactions to people with no previous history of Diamox or sulfa allergies. It works by increasing the Feb 13, 2025 · Your doctor may recommend taking Diamox for the Everest Base Camp trek, Acetazolamide, that is widely used to help reduce symptoms of altitude sickness. A lot of people very negative on Diamox here. Should you get altitude sickness tablets for your trip? There are tablets your pharmacist can offer you to treat mountain sickness if you are going to an area where you are at high risk. Aug 1, 2025 · Description Acetazolamide is used to treat edema (fluid retention) caused by heart failure or other medicines. The best treatment is to go down. Dexamethasone (Decadron) High Altitude Cerebral Edema is a serious form of altitude sickness where the brain swells and ceases to function properly. . Research backs up acetazolamide as a top treatment at high Sep 13, 2024 · Discover Diamox Tablet uses, dosage, price, and possible side effects. Symptoms may take days to develop or may occur within hours, depending on the rate of ascent and the altitude attained. Measures that improve oxygenation and/or hasten acclimatization like pre-treatment with acetazolamide will prevent the development of AMS. Took it for the entirety of Kilimanjaro, then tried to not take it for Aconcagua due to concerne others have shared about side effects being the same as AMS symptoms. No language restrictions were applied. yey gpahqw ysx qqakm cykxqf imkwewn vcucnr tjuux xjmhe iph