Thanks for all the input. My question wasn’t as clear as it should have been. I wanted to know if there were any restrictions related to taking Diamox prophylactically. I’ve used it before and have had good luck with it. I still plan to follow a sensible acclimatization schedule. (e.g. 4-5 night in basecamp). I didn’t expect my pack to be searched but I also wanted to be honest with the medical team.
I saw the reference to Diamox restrictions in a couple places but the most official notice was posted on William Marler’s Normal Route description on Summitpost.
“There is a permanent medical tent with up to four doctors at basecamp. Their services are free. You are now required to take a physical. They will take your blood pressure, listen to your lungs, and measure your pulse oxygen levels. If you do not measure up you will not be allowed to travel higher. At this moment in the permit office in Mendoza there is a sign warning that the use of Diamox is prohibited. The warning includes the message that the doctors have the right to send you packing if they find you are using this medication. If you intend on using Diamox, you have been advised. This presents a problem IMHO. The doctors at the camp will ask you what medications you are taking. To make an informed diagnosis on anyone's condition requires truthful disclosure from the patient”.
http://www.summitpost.org/normal-route/155610Mark, Thanks for the outstanding article you posted on Expedition Medicine. I printed it a few weeks ago and my hardcopy version is covered in circles, underlines and notes.
Don