Source:
Intended Distribution: High Altitude Mountaineers
*COPYRIGHT UIAA MOUNTAIN MEDICINE CENTRE*
http://www.thebmc.co.uk/world/mm/mm3.htm

DIAMOX, DEXAMETHASONE & NIFEDIPINE AT HIGH ALTITUDE
Diamox (acetazolamide) is of some value in the PREVENTION of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Dexamethasone (Decadron) has a place in the TREATMENT of established AMS and Cerebral Oedema. Nifedipine (Adalat) is used for Pulmonary Oedema. I have used the names by which these drugs are commonly known.

DIAMOX
Diamox (acetazolamide) a drug often used in the treatment of the eye condition glaucoma is useful in the prevention of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). AMS occurs commonly during visits to 3000-4500m and usually causes a severe headache,exhaustion and feeling generally unwell. Rarely (but even at these altitudes) the condition progresses to cause more serious problems which are potentially fatal - Pulmonary and Cerebral Oedema.

Diamox reduces the headache of AMS and helps the body acclimatize to the lack of oxygen. It also probably reduces the incidence of the complications of AMS mentioned above.

Whether or not one takes Diamox is obviously a matter of personal choice: travel to high altitudes is quite possible without it. I do not recommend the drug as a routine, though there is variation of opinion about this.

How to take Diamox
If you decide to use the drug, I suggest Diamox 250mg (one tablet) is taken twice daily as a trial at sea level for two days several weeks before a visit to altitude. Assuming no unpleasant side effects are experienced, take the drug in the same dose for three days before staying at 3500m and thereafter for two or three days until you feel acclimatised, for about five days in all.

Side Effects
Like all drugs Diamox may have unwanted effects. Tingling of the fingers, face and feet is the commonest; it is not a reason for stopping the drug unless the symptoms are intolerable. Dizziness, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion and rashes have all been reported but are unusual. It makes many people (including myself) feel a little "off colour". Exceptionally the drug has caused more serious problems with blood formation and/or the kidney. Those who are allergic to the sulphonamide antibiotics may also be allergic to Diamox. Carbonated drinks taste strange when you are taking Diamox. *Walkingjersey.com provide this information as is and suggest you contact your doctor to
seek appropriate advice on this drug if you intended to use it.