Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.

Airports do not typically "check" or verify the chemical composition of your medications, but they do screen them as part of the standard security process. Under TSA and international (EU/UK) rules, you are permitted to carry both prescription and over-the-counter medications in your carry-on or checked bags. Security officers are primarily looking for liquid medications that exceed the 100ml (3.4 oz) limit; these are allowed, but you must declare them verbally at the checkpoint so they can be screened separately. While it is not a legal requirement for most domestic travel, it is highly recommended to keep all medications in their original, labeled packaging. For international travel, especially to countries with strict drug laws (like Japan, Greece, or the UAE), you should carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor's letter. Customs officers, rather than security screeners, are the ones most likely to inspect medications to ensure you aren't bringing in controlled substances or prohibited items like high-dose codeine or specific stimulants.