I got the diamox med from my doctor and will be taking twice a day from 5 days before hike. Hope it helps
That's way too soon to start. Don't start more than 48 hours before you head to altitude. Most people start 24 hours before.
I hope your prescription is correct for hiking usage -- 125 mg twice a day is the maximum. Many people cut that in half. Do not take the dosage prescribed for glaucoma -- 500 mg twice a day. The side-effects will make you miserable.