Little-known drug keeps climbers' minds sharp at high altitude

A so-called "smart drug" intended to boost cognitive performance also seems to protect the brain from altitude sickness, according to a military study that tested it at 4000 metres. An increasing number of people visit high-altitude sites nowadays, for work, sport, religious pilgrimages and military tasks. But even the fittest among us suffer in thin air: the lower oxygen content at altitude can lead to cognitive effects, including memory loss and attention difficulties. There is little you can do to prevent these symptoms other than acclimatise – but this takes time and doesn't always work. A drug called oxiracetam might be the answer.