Diamox

Generic Name: Acetazolamide

Diamox helps to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness such as headache, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
Diamox (Acetazolamide) helps to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. This medication decreases headache, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath that are likely to occur when you climb quickly to high altitudes (generally above 10,000 feet/3,048 meters). This drug may be also used with other medications to treat a certain type of eye problem (open-angle glaucoma) or to treat certain types of seizures (petit mal and unlocalized seizures). Diamox (Acetazolamide) may also be used in other cases.

Dosage and direction
Take generic Diamox only as prescribed because dosage and schedule may vary on your condition and other factors. It is advised to follow the doctor's instructions carefully and not to take more or less medication than prescribed. It is advised to start taking acetazolamide 1 to 2 days before you start to climb. Also continue taking it while you are climbing. Inform your doctor about your condition.

Precautions
Before you start taking Acetazolamide, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Aged people may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug.

Contraindications
Acetazolamide is contraindicated in patients who have serious kidney, liver or eye problems. This medicine should not be taken by pregnant women and children as well as in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any component of the tablet. Acetazolamide is not recommended while breast-feeding.

Possible Side Effects
The most common side effects are dizziness, lightheadedness, an increased amount of urine, blurred vision, dry mouth, drowsiness, headache, etc. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is very rare, but seek immediate medical help if it occurs. Many people using this medicine do not have serious side effects. In case you notice any side effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.