Traveller’s Guide to Medication Restrictions Across the Globe

Posted on September 27, 2023September 27, 2023

Travelling with medications can be a complex process due to varying regulations across countries. It’s essential to understand that while certain medications are legally accessible in the UK, they might be restricted or prohibited in other countries. Failing to comply with these regulations could lead to intense scrutiny from customs officials, possible confiscation of medication, and even imprisonment for carrying an excess amount without the appropriate documentation.

Navigating Medication Restrictions Around the Globe

The Travel Medicine Certificate can be a lifesaver for travellers, especially when it comes to medications that might be restricted or banned in various countries. This certificate acts as a safeguard, providing travellers the necessary documentation and peace of mind when journeying internationally.

To ensure a hassle-free journey, it’s vital to be aware of these restrictions. Here’s a guide to help you navigate medication regulations in various countries

Common medications restricted in certain countries

Restricted in Japan

In Japan, over-the-counter medicines like Sudafed and Vicks, common in the UK, are strictly prohibited¹. This also extends to decongestant products containing pseudoephedrine such as Vicks, Zyrtec, Advil, and Tylenol. Travellers are also only allowed a maximum of 3 months supply of these controlled medications. See the case of Carrie Russel an American woman who was detained in Japan for 18 days for ADHD medication².

Common medications that can lead to legal complications in Japan

• Decongestants containing pseudoephedrine, such as Vicks, Zyrtec, Advil and Tylenol
• Adderall and other amphetamines/methamphetamines
• ADHD drugs like Adderall, Vyvanse, and Dexedrine
• Medications containing codeine or morphine
• CBD Oil

Restricted in UAE

The UAE has a strict classification of controlled substances. Travellers should familiarise themselves with this list or use DocHQ’s free travel medicine checker tool to ensure compliance.

Some controlled Medications in the UAE

• Strong painkillers containing codeine, valium or Ritalin³. 
• Common contraceptive pills
• Some nicotine lozenges, such as Niquitin Mint Lozenges
• Otrivin Nasal Spray
• Some sleeping and anti- anxiety pills
• HIV/AIDS antiretroviral medication for personal use⁴

Restricted in China

China requests that visitors bring a doctor’s note for every medication they carry. Any amount above a seven-day supply of medication is also restricted, and a doctor’s note clarifying why more than a seven-day supply is needed would be requested.

List of common medications restricted in China

• Sleeping pills
• Medication for ADHD such as Adderall, Concerta and Ritalin⁵
• Strong painkillers without a prescription

Restricted in Europe

European countries like Greece and Italy have particular rules regarding narcotics, necessitating specific documentation for entry. Travellers are urged to review these regulations using DocHQ’s Travel Medicine Checker tool and purchase a Travel Medicine Certificate if needed.

List of common controlled Medications in Europe

• ADHD/ADD medications (Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin)⁶
• Pain medications (Vicodin, Oxycontin, Demerol)
• Anxiety medications (Xanax, Ativan, Valium)

Restricted in the United States

While the United States permits a wide range of medications, certain substances containing potentially addictive components require proper documentation for travellers.

Restricted Medications in the US

• Medicines containing potentially addictive substances or narcotics (antidepressants, sleeping pills) without a doctor’s note⁷.

Restricted in Eygpt

Egypt maintains strict restrictions against tramadol or codeine due to its use as a common heroin substitute⁸. Travellers are only allowed a restricted amount see the case of Laura Plummer, a British woman who was jailed in 2017 after she was found with 290 tramadol tablets whilst on vacation in Egypt. 

Read More: Case study of times when people have gotten in trouble for carrying medication abroad

Restricted in Singapore

Singapore has strict regulations concerning specific medications, requiring a license or doctor’s note for certain types.

Restricted Medications in Singapore:

• Anti-anxiety pills
• Sleeping pills
• Strong painkillers
• Common medication used to treat high cholesterol and diabetes⁹

Restricted in South Korea

Narcotic medications containing codeine, and morphine often used as pain killers are restricted in South Korea if carried without a prescription letter from a doctor or any prior approval from the Narcotic Control Division of the Korean Food and Drug Administration before arriving in South Korea¹⁰.

Restrictions from other countries

Qatar: Qatar regulates over-the-counter medicines such as cold and cough remedies, requiring travellers to carry a doctor’s note for compliance.

Indonesia: Many prescription medicines such as codeine, sleeping pills and treatments for ADHD are illegal.

Hong Kong: Sleeping tablets and medication to treat anxiety and medications used in treating certain conditions, such as erectile dysfunction are banned without a doctor’s note. If you intend on taking sleeping tablets during your flight you are advised to carry a doctor’s note.

Saudi Arabia and Nigeria: Ambien, a widely used prescription sleep aid, is prohibited in both Saudi Arabia and Nigeria¹¹.

General Guidance for Traveling with Medication

• Medications should be in their original packaging and containers.
• Avoid travelling with more than a 90-day supply unless necessary.
• Plan ahead, request a Travel Medicine Certificate at least 6 weeks before travellng.
• Declare all drugs and medicinal products to the appropriate officials.
• Carry a prescription or a written statement from your GP, stating the necessity of the substances for your physical well-being during travel.

Concerned about medication restrictions during your travels? Use DocHQ’s free Travel Medicine Checker to ensure your medicines are safe for your destination. If needed, opt for our Travel Medicine Certificate service. Our GPs review your prescriptions and provide necessary documents, including a Travel Guidance Letter outlining destination-specific restrictions and how to obtain additional required documents. Travel confidently with DocHQ.

---

Sources