Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which medication is used in preventing altitude mountain sickness?

1. Acetaminophen

2. Aspirin

3. Acetazolamide

4. Ibuprofen

The correct answer is: Acetazolamide

Acetazolamide is the medication used to prevent altitude mountain sickness. It works by promoting the excretion of bicarbonate in the kidneys, thereby helping to correct the acid-base balance that is often disrupted at high altitudes. This adjustment enhances the body's ability to acclimatize to lower oxygen levels, reducing the risk of altitude sickness. Individuals traveling to high altitudes might experience symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness, which are indicative of altitude mountain sickness. By using acetazolamide before ascending to higher elevations, individuals can mitigate these symptoms and improve their chances of successfully acclimatizing. In contrast, acetaminophen is primarily used for pain relief and fever reduction, while aspirin and ibuprofen are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used for pain management and inflammation but do not have a specific preventative role in altitude sickness. While they may help alleviate some symptoms associated with altitude sickness, they do not address the underlying physiological adaptations necessary to prevent the condition itself.