Acetazolamide or not, prior to ascent?

Special Operation Soldiers must be prepared to work in all environmental extremes, frequently with little or no preparation time. While working in extreme heat or cold is uncomfortable, little preparation is necessary as long as reasonably fit Soldiers remain properly nourished, hydrated, or clothed. Working at high altitude poses additional risks that can be pharmacologically mitigated. While new prophylactic therapies are appearing on the scene in mountaineering and high-altitude climbing circles, acetazolamide still appears to be the preferred drug for the prevention of altitude related illness.