Diamox is a drug which reduces the symptoms of altitude sickness or acute mountain sickness (AMS). It has therefore become popular amongst Kilimanjaro climbers and the subject of much heated debate.
It is worth noting that Diamox was developed to prevent AMS in case of rapid forced ascent. This is not the case when you climb Kilimanjaro, where you have the option to take your time and ascend slowly over multiple days in order to acclimatize naturally.
We find that medical practitioners and travellers from countries with a higher tendency to make use of prescription drugs, such as the United States, also tend to towards advocating Diamox for Kilimanjaro climbs, whereas those from countries leaning towards natural preventions and avoiding drugs, such as Switzerland, also tend to have a less favorable view of Diamox.
Some of the most common side effects of Diamox are frequent urination and tingling sensations in your fingers and toes. While this is not problematic per se, it will significantly impact your sleep quality. Poor sleep for multiple days prior to attempting your final summit push may decrease your summit success chance and enjoyment of your summit experience.
Objective statistics are currently not yet available to support a clear recommendation for or against Diamox, both from a safety and summit success both of view. In the absence of such evidence, we recommend that you follow the advice provided by your expert medical practitioner.
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