Study of Safety Assessment of Acetazolamide in Prevention of High-Altitude Illness

Dr (Professor) Vinay Maurya, Dr Satish Kamtikar

Abstract: Background: High altitude illness (HAI) poses a significant risk to individuals ascending rapidly to high altitudes. Acetazolamide is widely used as a prophylactic agent to prevent HAI. However, comprehensive safety data in large populations remain limited. Objective: To assess the safety profile of Acetazolamide in the prevention of high-altitude illness through evaluation of side effects in a large study population. Methods: A total of 5, 503 participants who were willing to receive Acetazolamide were included in the study. Drug administration consisted of either a single dose of Acetazolamide 250 mg SR or Acetazolamide 125 mg twice daily. Participants were monitored for six days for the development of side effects. Results: Of the 5, 503 participants, 568 (10.32%) manifested one or more side effects. The most commonly reported side effects were tingling (4.29%) and dry mouth (2.13%). Severe side effects were rare. Conclusion: Acetazolamide was well tolerated in the majority of individuals. Most side effects were mild and self-limiting, supporting its continued use as a prophylactic agent for HAI with appropriate counselling.

Keywords: High Altitude, Adverse Effects

How to Cite?: Dr (Professor) Vinay Maurya, Dr Satish Kamtikar, "Study of Safety Assessment of Acetazolamide in Prevention of High-Altitude Illness", Volume 14 Issue 10, October 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1093-1097, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251010122512, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251010122512