You May Need Permission to Travel Abroad With Your Medications
Of the many logistical considerations when traveling abroad, what’s in your makeup bag probably isn’t high on the list. But it should be done, especially if you have a chronic condition and/or require prescription medications, because you may need the necessary documentation before traveling .
As The Points Guy reports , many common medications that are prescribed to treat everything from sleep and allergies to anxiety and ADHD are considered controlled substances (or illegal) in other countries and require additional documentation if you plan to cross international borders. In some cases, you will even have to apply for a permit in advance.
While you can simply hope that your luggage doesn’t get inspected by customs officers, you probably shouldn’t take the risk. At best, they may confiscate the medications you need and will not be able to replace them while you are abroad, and at worst, you may be fined or even sentenced to prison.
How to Travel with Prescription Medicines
At the very least, you should always follow the CDC’s basic recommendations for traveling abroad with medications. Keep all medications in the original container with a label that includes the prescription name, dosage, provider’s name, and your full name, and bring copies of all prescriptions filled. If any of your medications are considered a controlled substance or if you carry injectable medications such as Epi-Pen or insulin, you should also have a treatment plan or a note from your doctor describing their use.
Some types of drugs that may be subject to additional restrictions include narcotics, psychotropic drugs, hormones (including birth control pills), dietary supplements, and drugs with specific ingredients (including over-the-counter drugs) such as codeine, pseudoephedrine, and diphenhydramine.
Check the rules for your specific destination.
Depending on the country you are traveling to or through, a valid prescription may not be enough to avoid legal problems. In Japan, for example , some medications that are sold over-the-counter in the US or commonly prescribed for pain, allergies, and mental disorders (including anything containing amphetamines) are illegal. You must obtain a “Yunyu Kakunin-sho” or import certificate for these drugs before arrival from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare .
There are several other countries that require authorization for certain controlled drugs:
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China
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Hong Kong
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Singapore
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South Korea
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Thailand
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United Arab Emirates
This list is not exhaustive and restrictions vary by country. In some cases, there are also restrictions on the quantity or supplies you can travel with, which you will need to consider if you plan to be abroad for an extended period of time. Other countries, such as Australia, may not require a separate authorization, but strictly require documentation from the prescribing physician.
If you’re heading to Europe, you may need a Schengen certificate for drugs covered by the Opium Law, which includes some painkillers, sleeping pills, medicinal cannabis and stimulants, in addition to any country-specific approvals.
Before you travel, visit the U.S. Embassy website for your destination for instructions on importing medications and any necessary permits. You can also view regulations through the International Narcotics Control Board , although this information may not be the most current.
Make a plan with your provider
Again, if you encounter restrictions or supply restrictions at your destination that could make traveling with a chronic condition difficult, work with your provider to create a detailed plan to ensure your medical needs are met. Carry copies of all documentation with you and in your hand luggage.