WHAT IS IT?
A medication produced for the treatment of glaucoma and epilepsy but that can both treat and aid prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). It is currently an ‘off-label’ use of this medicine

WHO CAN IT HELP?

Anyone considered at moderate or high risk as according to the Wilderness Medicine Societies definitions:

MODERATE RISK

• • Individuals with a history of AMS ascending to 2,500-2,800m in one day
  • Individuals with no history of AMS ascending to >2,800m in one day
  • All individuals ascending >500 m/day (in sleeping elevation) at altitudes above 3,000m

HIGH RISK

• • Individuals with a history of AMS ascending to ≥2,800m in 1 day&nbsp
  • All individuals with a history of HACE or HAPE
  • All individuals ascending to >3,500m in 1 day
  • All individuals ascending >500 m/day (in sleeping elevation) above 3,500m
  • Very rapid ascents (e.g. Kilimanjaro in less than 7 days)
  • Pre-existing medical conditions and altitude

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Acetazolamide helps to regulate breathing so that the body can absorb oxygen more efficiently and helps the body to acclimatise quicker. It is also a mild diuretic and counteracts the fluid retention associated with AMS.

HOW DO I TAKE IT?

1. Dose: Half a tablet (125mg) twice a day taken morning and tea-time
2. A 2-day trial at ground level prior to trip is essential to rule outside effects.
3. Once at destination acetazolamide should be commenced 1 day prior to risk altitudes and taken twice daily until 2 -3 days after reaching the highest altitude or after descent below 3000m.

SIDE EFFECTS:

• Commonly tingling in fingers/toes, increased urination, nausea. Less common – rashes, flushing and thirst, fizzy drinks tasting flat. If severe consider not using for prevention of AMS.
• Some side effects could also be symptoms of AMS (headache, nausea, fatigue,
• shortness of breath) and must NEVER be ignored. If symptoms worsen at altitude, assume AMS and act accordingly.
• See Patient Information Leaflet here

WHO SHOULDN’T TAKE IT?

• People with allergies to sulphides (contained in some antibiotics and foods e.g. dried apricots).
• People with certain pre-existing medical conditions and/or taking certain medications (your health declaration will be assessed by our pharmacist to ensure this medicine is suitable for you)

NOTES:

• BE AWARE OF THE SIGNS/SYMPTOMS OF ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS THIS  100% effective, if ANY symptoms are experienced, still always suspect AMS.
• Your level of fitness does NOT determine chances of suffering AMS.
• Acetazolamide does not ‘mask the symptoms’ of AMS but helps prevent/treat them.
• Drink plenty of fluid to avoid dehydration.
• Acetazolamide has lots of drug interactions so only take it if it has been prescribed for you.
• Do not take Acetazolamide at the same time as Aspirin, Ibuprofen (NSAIDS) or Alcohol

A telephone consultation can be arranged with our pharmacy if you wish to discuss anything further. Please call us on 01341555061 for further details.