Prescription medications
If you are currently taking prescription or over the counter medications, you will need to make sure that you have access to these medications while you are abroad.
A few words of advice before you depart:
- Talk to your physician about getting a supply of your prescription medication to last the entire time that you are abroad. However, be aware, that many countries will only allow quantities of medication for personal use.
- Research the laws and regulations of the country to make sure that your prescription and over-the-counter medications are permissible and available. Be aware that in many countries amphetamine-based medications used for attention deficit disorders are illegal or highly restricted.
- Pack your prescription medications, in original containers, in your carry-on luggage. Do not pack the medications in your checked luggage.
- Have a letter on letterhead from the prescribing physician for all prescribed medications (including their generic names), indicating your diagnosis, treatment, and medication regimen. This is extremely important in case you need treatment or a medication refill abroad.
- Do not plan on sending medications abroad.
and while you are abroad:
- Don’t stop taking your medications or adjust your dosage unless advised to do so by a medical professional. Students may have feelings of excitement and exhilaration when they arrive abroad and sometimes decide to stop taking their medication. Don’t do this.
- If you need a refill while abroad, you must see a local doctor to get a similar prescription. It will be critical to have a letter on letterhead from the prescribing physician for all prescribed medications (including their generic names), indicating your diagnosis, treatment, and medication regimen.
Additional Resources
