Finding altitude sickness pills in BA? ie Diamox?

[Karly]

I'll be leaving for Peru next week and have had the hardest time getting my prescription for Diamox (altitude sickness pills) filled. I've been to at least 5 pharmacies and no one seems to carry it. Have you found it??? Can you direct me to a pharmacy somewhere in the city?


Thank you for the help!!!!

 

[jez]

You will easily be able to get something similar in Peru. And probably won't need a prescription to get it. You have a prescription, but if its not for medical reasons (and for the altitude) ascend slowly, drink plenty of water, refrain from Alcohol for the first few days, and aspirin helps. I personally believe in letting the body adjust naturally, but if you are on a short trip this is not possible.

 

[Karly]

Hey, thanks for the response.

I would like to get them here so that I can start taking them a day or two in advance. We'll be arriving in Lima and then heading straight to the Cordillera Blanca where we'll be doing some major ascents...
I thought I could acclimate naturally, as you suggest, but I got really sick in the Bolivian Altiplano last year - I guess I'm a bit sensitive (vomiting constantly to the point that I thought I'd have to go to the hospital to be treated for dehydration). But a kind stranger gave me two Diamox pills. I wasn't able to hold down the first one but the second one immediately cleared up my symptoms - well, long enough for me to start to hold down water, anyway, and start to feel MUCH MUCH better.
So.... Long story short, I need to be better prepared this time! And any and all advice helps!
Thanks!

 

[jez]

I assume you will be based in Huaraz, if so check out: http://www.josplacehuaraz.com/ run by an English / Peruvian couple, Joe & Vicky; friendly and secure. One of my favourite chicken and chips restaurants in Peru is about 3 blocks from the hostel.

 

[Karly]

Hey, thanks for the recommendation.
We already have a reservation here: http://www.olazas.com/photo.htm
But I'll keep Jo's Place and the restaurant in mind.

P.S. I found pills!!! Though my prescription was made out for Diamox, it is apparently not made anymore, but I found the same drug (Acetazolamida) under the name of Hydroftal.
Exito.