Traveling with Prescriptions? Here are the drugs that can get you in trouble abroad

With summer travel season about to kick into high gear, millions of U.S. travelers will prepare for international trips. For the more than half of Americans taking prescription medications, this creates an additional critical logistic, as many countries impose strict guidelines and bans on particular prescription drugs. 

“For Americans planning and preparing for trips abroad, it’s not just about finding that perfect hotel or restaurant, or packing your favorite swimsuit or sunscreen,” said Jen Bourgeois, Pharm.D., a health expert for SingleCare, a free prescription savings service. “Without intel on some of the local regulations on prescriptions, travelers can face serious consequences, such as having medications confiscated or even the possibility of facing detention or criminal charges. It definitely pays to know before you go.”

Key prescription insights for 6 popular international summer travel destinations:

France: With the Olympics taking center stage in Paris this summer, travelers entering France must also have a doctor’s prescription and only the amount of the medication required for the trip. Make sure you have those packed before purchasing tickets and planning stops along the Champs-Elysees.

Japan: For travelers looking to take in Tokyo’s nightlife or experience the serenity of Kyoto’s temples, you’ll need to be mindful of what you pack—ADHD medications, opioids, Benadryl, and medications containing amphetamines or pseudoephedrine (active ingredients in Sudafed and Vicks) are all banned there. 

Greece: While Athens’ ancient landmarks and the iconic vacation islands of Mykonos and Santorini beckon travelers across the globe, it’s important to leave any prescription for painkillers—including codeine or tramadol—at home. These are banned substances that are not permitted in Greece.

Indonesia: For those planning trips to enjoy the spectacular beaches of Bali or Lombok, it is imperative to know what prescription drugs you’ll have to leave in your medicine cabinet. Codeine, sleeping pills, and ADHD medications are controlled substances that are banned in Indonesia.

Singapore: If you’re planning to experience Singapore’s breathtaking botanical gardens or culinary delights in the popular Orchard Road district, first double-check that you’ve left locally banned medications out of your toiletries bag, including sleeping pills, anti-anxiety pills, and strong painkillers without a prescription.

Mexico: For people looking to enjoy the beach in Cabo or see the beautiful Mayan Ruins, it’s important to know what medications are banned in Mexico. Prescriptions that have pseudoephedrine (Actifed, Sudafed, and Vicks) or codeine are banned, and visitors should not travel with any drugs containing those ingredients.

“It's crucial for travelers to research the medication policies of international destinations they’re planning to visit at least a couple of months in advance," Dr. Bourgeois emphasized. "Check with your local pharmacist if you have questions, as well as local embassies, as they can be an invaluable resource in identifying which of your prescriptions may be restricted and advising you on how to stay adherent while abroad.” 

Tips for Traveling Abroad with Prescriptions, from Dr. Jen Bourgeois:

1. Do Your Homework on Your Meds: Talk to your healthcare provider, pharmacist, and the embassy in the country you’re visiting to understand local travel restrictions. If you need to bring prescription painkillers, ADHD medications, or sleeping pills in particular, be sure to check that they are permitted. 

2. Name Game: Make sure the name on your prescription matches the name on your passport. Some countries also require proof that it was prescribed by a licensed practitioner. You’ll need to carry your prescription in its original container as it can get confiscated if it's in another container like a pillbox or Ziploc bag. 

3. Don’t Wait on Vaccines: Schedule a travel health consultation with your pharmacist to assess if you need any vaccines. Verify destinations where you may need vaccinations or antimalarial medications. If you need it, don’t wait until the last minute, as it typically takes 14 days for antibodies to build. Some vaccines need time to be ordered, so talk to your healthcare professional at least a couple of months before your trip. 

4. BYO-OTC: Stock up on the over-the-counter travel meds you may need from your local pharmacy before your trip, such as allergy, antidiarrheal, and motion sickness medications. When traveling internationally, don’t buy drugs that are not sold at a pharmacy, as counterfeit drugs are more common, especially in developing countries. 

5. Keep Calm and Carry On: Be sure to carry any essential medications in your carry-on luggage or personal bag on the flight in case your luggage is lost or stolen. In addition to packing your patience—a key for any international trip—this will also ensure you take your medications as directed in the event of any significant flight delays.

6. Plan Ahead With Your Medicine: If you will be away during a planned refill or if you won’t have enough of a prescribed medication to last through your trip, check with your pharmacy two weeks before you leave. The pharmacist may need to request refills or a “vacation override” from your insurance. While traveling, pay attention to time zone differences and take the medication according to your last dose, not the local time of day.