Altitude sickness tablets and travel advice in London

Altitude sickness is not an infection, so a jab will not prevent it. Prevention starts with the itinerary: slower ascent, planned rest days, sensible pacing, enough fluids, and knowing when not to go higher. Medication can be useful for some travellers, but it does not replace acclimatisation. Acetazolamide, often known by the brand name Diamox, is commonly used to reduce the chance of acute mountain sickness in moderate or higher-risk itineraries. It is usually started shortly before ascent and continued for a short period after reaching the highest sleeping altitude, depending on the route. It is not right for everyone, so we check medical history, allergies, pregnancy status, other medicines and previous reactions before advising. Side effects can include passing more urine, tingling in the fingers or toes, nausea, headache and changes in taste. Some people take a short trial before travel to see how they tolerate it. Children and people with existing medical conditions need individual assessment rather than a standard answer.