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Don’t Let Altitude Sickness Ruin Your Trip
Three simple steps to get your treatment
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.
Safe, effective medications reviewed by our pharmacists
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A guide to altitude sickness, why it occurs, who can be affected, and what travellers should know before visiting high-altitude destinations. Contents What is altitude sickness? Why does altitude affect
A guide to preparing for travel at high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness, and ensuring you are ready for your trip before you leave the UK. Contents Why
A guide to Acetazolamide, how it helps prevent altitude sickness, who it may be suitable for, and what travellers should know before taking it. Contents What is Acetazolamide? How does
