Acetazolamide (Altitude Sickness Prevention)
Acetazolamide (Diamox) is the CDC-recommended medication for prevention of acute mountain sickness (AMS) in travelers ascending to elevations above 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Through Wandr Health, a US-licensed provider reviews your request in an $89 online visit — no appointment needed — and sends the prescription to the pharmacy you choose.
Overview
Acute mountain sickness (AMS) affects 25–85% of unacclimatized travelers above 2,500 m (CDC Yellow Book). Acetazolamide inhibits carbonic anhydrase to accelerate acclimatization and is the CDC's most evidence-based option for AMS prevention. It's typically started 1–2 days before ascent and continued for 2 days after reaching peak elevation.
Common side effects include tingling in the hands and feet, increased urination, and altered taste of carbonated beverages. Acetazolamide is a sulfonamide derivative and should be avoided by individuals with sulfa allergies.
Wandr Health vs. a traditional travel clinic
Trips where travelers use Acetazolamide
Other travel medications
When travelers use this
- Treks above 8,000 feet including Machu Picchu, Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, and Colorado ski towns
- Travelers flying directly to high-altitude cities like Cusco, La Paz, or Lhasa
- Adventure travelers and hikers who want preventive coverage against acute mountain sickness
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
A Wandr Health provider visit is $89 and covers the licensed provider review, personalized recommendations, and prescription. Your prescription is sent to your preferred pharmacy, where you pay for the medication separately. At a traditional travel clinic, a consultation fee of $75–$150 typically applies on top of the medication cost.
Diamox is the brand name for Acetazolamide. The generic version contains the same active ingredient at the same dose and is FDA-approved as therapeutically equivalent. Wandr Health provides the generic version at a significantly lower price.
The CDC recommends starting Acetazolamide 1–2 days before ascending to altitude and continuing for 2 days after reaching the highest point of your trip. We recommend ordering at least 2–3 weeks before departure to allow time for provider review (typically within 24 hours) and shipping (3–5 business days).
Acetazolamide is a sulfonamide derivative and should be avoided by individuals with sulfa allergies. It is also contraindicated in severe kidney or liver disease. All prescriptions are reviewed by a licensed clinician based on your individual health profile.