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Altitude Sickness Treatment at The Kingston Pharmacy, Kingston upon Thames
4.9/5

Don’t Let Altitude Sickness Ruin Your Trip

Altitude Sickness Treatment

Wherever you go, we help you prepare safely for altitude so you can focus on the experience
Medication tailored to your trip
Clinically proven prevention
Quick and easy access
From £28.00·Checking availability…
From £28.00·Checking availability…

GPhC Approved UK Pharmacy

Same Day Appointments

4.9/5 on Google Review

Confidential Services

How It Works

Three simple steps to get your treatment

Step 1

Tell Us About Your Trip
Answer a few quick questions about your destination, altitude, travel dates, and medical history.

Step 2

Quick Clinician Review
Our clinicians will review your information and approve safe, effective treatment based on your needs.

Step 3

Collect or Receive Your Medication
Once approved, collect your medication from the pharmacy or have it delivered before you travel.

What Is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness (also known as acute mountain sickness) can occur when you travel to high altitudes too quickly, usually above 2,500 metres. It happens because your body struggles to adapt to lower oxygen levels at altitude.
Common symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, shortness of breath, poor sleep, and loss of appetite. Symptoms often begin within hours of ascent and can worsen if not managed properly.
Altitude sickness medication can help your body acclimatise more effectively and reduce the risk of symptoms becoming severe. Our service provides professional assessment and prescription treatment to help you travel more safely and comfortably.

Available Treatments

Safe, effective medications reviewed by our pharmacists

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Our Clinical Team

Rifqa Jibara

Superintendent Pharmacist and Prescriber
GPhC No. 2232122

Ra'eesah Rasan

Clinical Pharmacist
GPhC No. 2240473

Common Questions

Who should consider altitude sickness medication? +

Anyone travelling rapidly to high altitudes, particularly above 2,500 metres, may benefit from altitude sickness medication. This includes people going trekking, hiking, skiing, mountaineering, climbing, or working at altitude. Those who have previously experienced altitude sickness are often at higher risk.

What medication can help prevent altitude sickness? +

The most commonly prescribed medication for altitude sickness prevention is acetazolamide (often known by the brand name Diamox). Acetazolamide helps your body adapt to lower oxygen levels at high altitude and can reduce the risk of developing altitude sickness symptoms.

Can I get acetazolamide (Diamox) from a pharmacy? +

Yes. Following a clinical assessment, eligible travellers may be prescribed acetazolamide through our pharmacy altitude sickness service. Our clinician will review your medical history, travel plans, and current medications before treatment is supplied.

When should I start taking acetazolamide for altitude sickness? +

Acetazolamide is typically started one to two days before ascending to high altitude and continued while you remain at altitude. The exact timing and dosage will depend on your itinerary and individual circumstances.

Does altitude sickness medication guarantee I won't get altitude sickness? +

No. Altitude sickness medication significantly reduces the risk and severity of symptoms, but no medication can completely eliminate the risk. Gradual ascent, adequate hydration, and proper acclimatisation remain important.

How effective is acetazolamide for preventing altitude sickness? +

Studies have shown that acetazolamide can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing Acute Mountain Sickness when taken correctly. It is widely recommended for travellers ascending rapidly to high altitude.

What are the side effects of acetazolamide? +

Common side effects of acetazolamide include tingling in the fingers, toes, or face, increased urination, altered taste, and mild nausea. Serious side effects are uncommon and will be discussed during your assessment.

What should I do if I develop altitude sickness symptoms while travelling? +

If you develop symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue, you should avoid further ascent and rest. Severe symptoms require immediate descent and urgent medical attention. We provide advice on recognising warning signs before you travel.

What altitude causes altitude sickness? +

Altitude sickness can occur above 2,500 metres, although symptoms can develop at lower altitudes in some people. The risk increases as altitude rises and when ascent is rapid.

What are the side effects of acetazolamide? +

Common side effects of acetazolamide include tingling in the fingers, toes, or face, increased urination, altered taste, and mild nausea. Serious side effects are uncommon and will be discussed during your assessment.

Knowledge hub

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Travel with confidence at high altitude
From £28.00·Checking availability…
Altitude Sickness Treatment
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