Private Altitude Sickness Prevention
Acute Mountain Sickness Prophylaxis
Book online at a pharmacy in 12 towns in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
About Altitude Sickness Prevention
Altitude sickness can happen when you go high, usually above 2,500 metres. It is more likely if you climb quickly. This service can supply acetazolamide tablets to help prevent it.
Who it’s for
- Adults aged 18 or over
- People travelling to high altitude, such as trekking or climbing
- People who have had altitude sickness before or are climbing quickly
- Not suitable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have kidney or severe liver problems
Common questions
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms usually start 6 to 10 hours after arriving. They include headache, loss of appetite, feeling or being sick, tiredness, dizziness and trouble sleeping.
How much does it cost?
Each pharmacy sets its own price. You can see it when you choose a pharmacy.
When do I start the tablets?
Start 1 to 2 days before you go up. Try them for a day or two before you travel to check for side effects.
What are the side effects?
Side effects include tingling in fingers and toes, peeing more, feeling sick, headache and changes in taste.
Do tablets replace climbing slowly?
No. Go up slowly. Spend a few days below 2,500 metres before going higher. Take a rest day every 3 to 4 days above 3,000 metres. Avoid alcohol.
When should I get help?
Get help fast if you feel very unwell or confused, have balance problems, are short of breath at rest, or cough up frothy or bloody spit. Go down straight away if you can.
More information
- England and WalesNHS: Altitude sickness (opens in a new tab)
How it works
Choose a service
Pick the service you need.
Find a pharmacy
Enter your town or postcode to see pharmacies near you that book it online.
Book a time
Choose a day and time, answer the pharmacy’s questions and send your booking. The pharmacy confirms it by email.