China has officially approved its first domestic medication for the prevention of acute mountain sickness. The National Medical Products Administration granted marketing authorization to acetazolamide sustained-release capsules, providing a new tool for people traveling to high-altitude regions.
This approval marks a change in how the country manages altitude-related health concerns. Previously, travelers lacked access to a specialized, locally approved drug for prevention, relying on options that were either unavailable or not tailored to the needs of the domestic population. The new sustained-release formulation offers a medical alternative to simple health supplements, backed by clinical data.
The clinical trials were led by Luobu Gesang, deputy dean of the People's Hospital of Xizang Autonomous Region. His team conducted research specifically focused on Chinese and Asian demographics, ensuring the findings address local health requirements. The study demonstrated a clear reduction in altitude sickness symptoms, with moderate-to-severe cases dropping by 14.6 percent compared to the placebo group.
This medication works by inhibiting carbonic anhydrase, which helps the body adjust to lower oxygen levels. By promoting the excretion of bicarbonate, the drug corrects respiratory alkalosis and stabilizes the internal acid-base balance. This mechanism allows for better oxygen levels when individuals move from low to high altitudes.
Unlike older international versions that required multiple daily doses, this sustained-release capsule provides a more convenient option for users. The research results supporting this drug were published in the journal High Altitude Medicine & Biology, confirming the effectiveness of the treatment for those at risk of altitude illness.