Essential Medicines Every Trekker Should Carry for a Safe and Healthy Adventure

Based on years of experience and through research by our expert trekkers, Trekyaari has created a list of essential medicines that should be carried on every trek. Carrying your own personal safety kit is absolutely essential. Although trekyaari teams ensure all necessary arrangements including medicines and safety kits, it’s still important to keep your own personal kit with you during travel and the trek. 

ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts)

Trekking for long hours causes fluid loss through sweat especially at higher altitude and also losses essential salts and vital vitamins. ORS restores all the electrolytes, prevents dehydration and also helps to boost the energy level in the body. Also it is helpful in diarrhea causes due to sudden change in food, water, and weather. Just after trekking on a sunny day or steepy trekking mix a sachet in clean water and drink throughout the day. 

Paracetamol (Dolo-650)

Carrying Paracetamol is a must thing to do. It is used for any kind of pain, headache, or fever. However it should always be taken in the correct dosage- it’s not that if the pain is severe, you should take more tablets. If the pain persists, you can take another tablet, but only after 4-6 hours. At a time, only 500-650 mg should be taken. Although Paracetamol is generally a safe medicine, but it is best to consult your doctor before taking it.

Digene (Antacid)

Bloating, Acidity, and indigestion is common during trek due to change in diet and irregular meal timings. Chewing one Digene tablet after a meal will soothe your stomach and prevent bloating or discomfort. It is so helpful for those who have a weak or sensitive digestive system.

Pain relief balm/spray (volini or move)

Trekking puts a lot of pressure on your legs, knees,and back. So for muscle pain and joint stiffness products like move and volini are essential. Sprays are convenient in cold weather and require no hand contact, while pain relief balms provide warmth and comfort when massaged into the skin.   

Anti Nausea medicine (Avomine)

Due to the Winding drives to the base camp during trek can cause motion sickness. So Anti Nausea Medicine like Avomine prevents motion sickness like vomiting, nausea and dizziness. The best time to take the tablet is before 30 minutes of your journey begins. These medicines can cause drowsiness, so they’re best taken only before travelling, not while trekking.

Acute Mountain Sickness (Diamox)

symptoms like headache, nausea, or shortness of breath can be noticed in beginners while trekking above 12,000 feet which is commonly known as Acute Mountain Sickness. To prevent or reduce these symptoms, trekkers consume Diamox in dosage of 125mg (half tablet). This medicine helps the body to adjust to high altitudes more efficiently. But always consult a doctor before using it, especially if you have underlying health conditions. 

Antiseptic Ointment

As an antiseptic Ointment have Betadine, Burnol, or soframycin is essential as minor cuts, burns and insect bites are common on the trails during treks. These Ointments prevent infection and help wounds heal faster. Always clean wounds/affective areas properly with clean water or antiseptic wipes and then apply a thin layer of ointment and also cover it with gauze if needed. 

Blister Pads

During trekking because of long walks, sweaty feet, fluid filled bubbles can form on the feet, which lead to blisters. These blisters can make walking very painful and difficult. They can be prevented by keeping the feets dry, wearing double layered socks and applying blister pads. Keep your shoes clean and dirt free. If a blister does form, avoid popping it and cover it with a sterile bandage to prevent infection.

Personal Prescription Medicine

While the general medicines are a must, don't forget your personal prescription medications. If you have health conditions like asthma, diabetes, blood pressure issues, or any kind of allergies do inform your trek leader  before the trekking and keep proper stock of your prescribed medicines.  

Basic first aid kit

Keep basic first aid kit essentials like scissors, band-aids, sterile gauze, antiseptic wipes, and a thermometer in properly organised, easy to access pouches.