Private Service

Altitude Sickness Travel Higher, Safely

Heading to the mountains? Our pharmacist-led Altitude Sickness service offers private consultation and same-day Acetazolamide (Diamox) to help prevent altitude sickness on your trek or trip.

About the Service

Prepare Before You Climb

Altitude sickness can affect anyone travelling above 2,500m — regardless of age or fitness. From treks to Everest Base Camp and Kilimanjaro to city breaks in Cusco or La Paz, taking the right preventative steps can mean the difference between an unforgettable trip and a miserable one.

Our pharmacist independent prescriber can assess your travel plans and, if appropriate, supply Acetazolamide (Diamox) — the most widely used and well-studied medication for preventing altitude sickness — all in a single private appointment.

Know the Signs

Common Symptoms

Headache & Nausea

The most common early signs — often felt within 6–24 hours of arriving at altitude.

Shortness of Breath

Difficulty catching your breath, even at rest, as your body adjusts to lower oxygen.

Dizziness & Fatigue

Feeling light-headed, weak or unusually tired during normal activity at altitude.

Poor Sleep & Appetite

Disturbed sleep, loss of appetite and a general feeling of being unwell.

Who Should Consider It

Is It Right for You?

Travelling above 2,500m

Recommended for trips to high-altitude destinations such as Cusco, Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro or the Andes.

Rapid ascent planned

Especially useful if you cannot ascend gradually — for example, flying directly to high altitude.

Previous altitude sickness

If you've had altitude sickness before, you're more likely to get it again.

Aged 18 and over

Suitable for most healthy adults — we'll review your medical history at consultation.

Why Choose Us

Expert, Quick, Reliable

Pharmacist independent prescriber — no GP appointment needed
Private, confidential consultation in our Torquay clinic
Clear written instructions on dosing and what to expect
Same-day supply of Acetazolamide (Diamox) when suitable
Full medical and medication review for your safety
Honest advice on acclimatisation and travel planning

How It Works

Four Simple Steps

Book in Advance

Ideally 1–2 weeks before you travel, so you can start treatment 1–2 days before reaching altitude.

Private Consultation

Quick confidential review of your itinerary, medical history and any medications you take.

Prescription Supplied

If appropriate, we'll dispense Acetazolamide the same day with full instructions.

Travel with Confidence

Start tablets as advised, ascend sensibly, hydrate well — and enjoy your adventure.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is altitude sickness?

Also called Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), it happens when your body struggles to adapt to lower oxygen levels at high altitude — usually above 2,500m. Mild symptoms are common, but severe forms (HACE and HAPE) can be life-threatening.

How does Acetazolamide (Diamox) work?

Acetazolamide helps your body acclimatise faster by encouraging deeper breathing and reducing fluid build-up. It doesn’t cure altitude sickness, but it significantly reduces the risk of developing it.

When should I start taking it?

Start 1–2 days BEFORE you reach high altitude and continue for the first 2–3 days at altitude, or until you’ve fully acclimatised. We’ll give you a clear dosing plan.

Are there side effects?

Common side effects include tingling in fingers and toes, increased urination, and a metallic taste (especially with fizzy drinks). These are usually mild and stop when treatment ends.

Who can't take Acetazolamide?

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with a sulphonamide allergy, severe kidney or liver disease, or certain electrolyte imbalances. We’ll go through your full medical history during your consultation.

Does it replace sensible acclimatisation?

No. The best protection is gradual ascent, plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol, and listening to your body. Acetazolamide is an extra layer of safety, not a substitute.

Our Services

Need urgent advice?

Our pharmacy team is here to help. Call us or pop in today.

Planning a high-altitude trip?

Book your altitude sickness consultation 1–2 weeks before you travel — same-day supply when suitable.