Traveling With Medications

If you are currently taking a prescription medication, you will want to plan ahead to bring enough of your medication to last the duration of your travel. Medication cannot be shipped to you overseas, and overseas pharmacies cannot refill U.S.-based prescriptions. Additionally, although many over-the-counter (OTC) medicines can be carried internationally, some cannot. Medications prescribed in the U.S. may be unlicensed or controlled substances not only in your destination country but also in countries along your route. Some medications have restrictions on the amount that one can carry through customs.

Be sure to follow these guidelines and start this process at least three weeks prior to travel:

Obtain sufficient quantities of your prescription medications: First, contact your healthcare provider, tell them how long you will be studying abroad, and ask them for a prescription for your entire time abroad. Next, contact customer service at your domestic insurance provider, and ask for a “vacation override” or a “prescription override,” which allows you to get an extra supply early without a penalty. Note that not all insurance plans allow for an “override.” You may also need to call your pharmacy to make sure they have sufficient quantities of your medication or show documentation from your physician to expedite the refill. If there’s a problem at the pharmacy, ask them to contact your insurance company directly.
Medications unavailable abroad: Keep in mind that certain OTC and prescribed medications may not be available, are in short supply, or are considered illegal in some foreign countries. Many common conditions in the U.S. are treated with the latest advances in science, and these may not yet be available in your host country. Customs agents will confiscate medications that are illegal, if discovered. Contact On Call International well in advance of departure to determine whether or not such medications are available in the destination country. If not, travelers will be strongly encouraged to work with their treating physicians and On Call International as far in advance as possible to discuss alternative treatment, arrange appropriate dosage, and manage potential side effects. Also, while it is advisable to take a variety of OTC medications with you to treat common symptoms, some countries restrict the import of U.S.-based cold medications (like Nyquil and Sudafed) that contain restricted ingredients.
Flying with medications: Keep medications in their original packaging. Place them in your carry-on luggage, with copies of your prescription. Consider carrying a doctor’s note explaining your need for legal, non-prescription drugs you have packed - in English and the language of your destination(s). It is also useful to look up the generic names of the medications, since brands vary.

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