The Diamox drug is medication used to treat several illnesses like Periodic paralysis, Epilepsy, Glaucoma and Altitude sickness. The most common brand name in this drug is Acetazolamide.
This drug is usually used at the point of acclimatization while hiking the Kilimanjaro. Only use this drug if prescribed by a medical person.
This is because the doctor has to make sure you don’t have any other underlying conditions just like any other drug.
Over time, the hikers that have used this drug and tried the acclimatization routines have minimized the effects of altitude sickness.
How does Diamox work?
This drug has the ability to stimulate breathing by adding more acids into the blood stream. This means that even when you have low oxygen in takes, you will be able to survive.
Most people take about 125mg of Diamox twice a day for a few days before standing the trek. But you should definitely first talk to your doctor.
Do you need Diamox to summit Kilimanjaro?
The Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa and it stands at about 5,895 meters above sea level. Therefore the chances that you will get altitude sickness are very high.
There are several routines that are used to control the effects of altitude sickness one of them being taking things slow and then the other being hiking high and sleeping low but Diamox is one of the most effective remedies.
Disclaimer: You will need to first consult your doctor before taking this drug.
Where can I buy Diamox around Moshi in Tanzania?
There are several pharmacies in Moshi that have this drug. If you have your prescription you definitely walk into any pharmacy around and you will get this drug.
Side Effects & Interactions
Everyone will have different reactions to this drug but the common side effects are:
- The drug will increase on your frequency for short calls. Therefore you advised to drink a lot water to stay dehydrated.
- You taste buds may change and some food may taste really weird.
- Some of your body parts may feel a little numb or ticklish like the toes, nose, ears and face.
- You may feel some nausea and drowsiness.
- There are many other symptoms and that’s why it’s important that you take this medication following the doctor’s advice.
There are many other natural remedies that help with altitude sickness although they are not proven medically but since they are no harmful, its okay for you to try out some of them.
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