Acetazolamide is used to help prevent altitude sickness on trips above around 2,500m. It works by making your body adjust more quickly to lower oxygen levels, reducing the headache, nausea and breathlessness that can come with rapid ascent.
It is usually started a day or two before you begin climbing and continued while you ascend. Common side effects include tingling in the fingers and toes, increased urination and a metallic taste with fizzy drinks. Medication supports a gradual ascent rather than replacing it, so plan your itinerary to allow time to acclimatise.
