Altitude sickness prevention
Symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
Who this service is for
- Adults ascending to altitudes above 2,500m
- Those unable to acclimatise gradually
- People with history of altitude sickness
This service is not suitable for
- Those allergic to sulfonamides
- People with severe kidney or liver disease
- Those with certain blood disorders
When to seek urgent care
Contact your GP or seek emergency care immediately if you experience:
- Severe headache not relieved by medication
- Confusion or loss of coordination
- Breathlessness at rest
- Coughing up pink/frothy sputum
Treatment information
Gradual ascent is the main protection. Where a trip cannot allow for that, your prescriber may consider a preventive tablet started one to two days before ascent, after checking your health, allergies and other medicines. You will also get advice on recognising symptoms and when descent is the only safe treatment.
Prescription treatment is only supplied following a clinical assessment. If treatment is not clinically appropriate, you will not be charged for medication.
Reviewed by
Anand Sharma
MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber
Superintendent Pharmacist (designate)
Important information
This is a private healthcare service. Prescription medications are only supplied following a clinical assessment by a qualified prescriber. Treatment is not guaranteed and will only be provided where clinically appropriate. Alternative options may be discussed.