[Prevention of altitude sickness].

In experimental and clinical studies the effect of Acetazolamide (Diamox) on acute mountain sickness was investigated. It could be established that Acetazolamide does influence the symptoms, the man effect seems to be a reduction of the respiratory alkalosis, which is found in control persons in high altitudes. Observations made with a group of 25 tourists mountaineering in the Cordilleras (South America) over 24 days in altitudes between 3200 and 6000 m are described. In accordance with other published data the favorable influence of Acetazolamide on acute mountain sickness could be confirmed. Persons taking Acetazolamide were more efficient and better prepared to cope with the extreme situations in high altitude. They also showed to be more resistent to other diseases, which are following the stress in high altitude and are caused by the different climate and food.