Hello,
Yes, Diamox does help in preventing
high altitude sickness. Diamox (
Acetazolamide) basically a diuretic ('water pill') by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase it helps to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness.
It is found to be effective in persons who are rapidly transported to altitudes higher than 4,000 m. It should be taken twice daily 24 hours before ascent and continued for 48 hours while at high altitude, or longer as necessary to control symptoms.
Generally it is well tolerated however it may cause
paraesthesia, polyuria,
metallic taste and
allergic rash.
When taken along with metformin, Diamox may increase the risk of a rare but serious and potentially life-threatening condition known as
lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood.
Lactic acidosis is more likely to occur if you are exposed to hypoxic conditions (decreased oxygen levels). The signs and symptoms of lactic acidosis such as fatigue, weakness,
muscle pain, and increasing drowsiness.
In view of the above you should ask your doctor to lower the dose of metformin or to prescribe an alternate effective medicine for diabetes.
There is no other documented harmful interactions between Diamox and other medications that you have been taking.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician