DrugBuyers.Com: Int'l Airline travel & meds

Here's my advice for INTERNATIONAL travelers who are bringing scheduled meds along.

1) Keep all prescription drugs in your carry-on baggage

2) Keep all prescription drugs in their original dispensed container (with your name on it, name of prescribing doctor and the pharmacy Rx number, etc. DO NOT ALTER LABELS!)

3) If it is a highly regulated drug such as OxyContin, methadone or morphine (etc.), carry a letter from your physician stating that your are prescribed this drug for pain control. The letter should state what your medical condition is, how much and how often you require the medication and that if you are denied your medication for any reason, you will become sick and/or have increased pain. (This letter will become especially important in the event you become ill or your condition worsens while you are traveling and need to seek the care of a physician in the country you are visiting.)

4) Keep the names, addresses and phone numbers of your doctor and pharmacy written down and with your travel documents as Customs sometimes will call and verify your prescriptions. (This has happened to me one time.)

5) DO NOT DECLARE YOUR MEDICATIONS TO CUSTOMS! There is no need and you are not legally required to do so--with the exception of most Middle Eastern or predominantly Islamic countries.

6) Remember that you are not doing anything wrong by bringing your meds with you on your visit. Don't act suspicious or nervous, look the immigration/Customs official in the eye when you answer their questions and be prepared for any line of questioning including questions such as:
How much cash do you have with you? Or what is the limit on your Visa card?
What is the address of the hotel you will be staying at?
Do you know anyone living in this country?
Why did you come to xxxxxxx for your holiday?

Basically, they can ask you anything--personal questions included.

Just relax, and remember, even if they search your bags or your person, you are still just there for a vacation/business trip/whatever and having valid prescription medications with you is not a crime!

ALWAYS check the laws of middle eastern/Islamic countries before traveling there with your medications! In some countries, possession of an opioid medication is illegal and may actually warrant a death penalty!

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Never underestimate the predictability of stupidity.