What are the rules for taking prescription drugs on international flights?

Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. Ensure that they are clearly labeled with your full name, health care provider's name, generic and brand name, and exact dosage. Bring copies of all written prescriptions, including the generic names for medicines.



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Include your prescription and over-the-counter medicines in your travel health kit and take enough to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of travel delays. Pack medications in a carry on in case your luggage is lost or delayed. Keep medicines in their original, labeled containers.

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As mentioned, you don't need to have your pills in their original bottles under TSA guidelines. However, when traveling out of the country, having those pills in their original prescription bottles may make the customs process smoother and simpler.

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Ask your doctor for a letter on their letterhead explaining your medical treatment and necessity, translated into the host country's language, if necessary. Pack enough medication to last the length of your trip and no more than personal-use quantities.

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All passenger items must undergo security screening. It is recommended that medication be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process.

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Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

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When drugs are confiscated in airports, TSA officers usually refer to law enforcement to secure the confiscated substances and store them in a warehouse known as a crime laboratory. Here, the drugs will be tested, organized, and shelved for trials.

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Traveling across time zones? That may complicate your medication schedule. Set an alarm on your smart phone to help you keep the same interval between doses. It's usually safe to take medicine 1-2 hours early or late, but don't double up doses.

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Prohibited and Restricted Items
  • Absinthe (Alcohol) ...
  • Alcoholic Beverages. ...
  • Automobiles. ...
  • Biologicals. ...
  • Ceramic Tableware. ...
  • Cultural Artifacts and Cultural Property. ...
  • Defense Articles or Items with Military or Proliferation Applications. ...
  • Dog and Cat Fur.


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At the Airport Security Checkpoint
You can tell the screening officer about your prescription drugs or present a written list. You may wish to bring doctor's notes, original prescription bottles or containers, and other documentation to make the screening process go more quickly.

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4 Tips for traveling with vitamins
  1. Liquid vitamins. Per TSA regulations, liquid supplements can only be transported below a certain amount: 3.4 oz or 100 mL. ...
  2. Look for vitamins that come in tablets, capsules and soft gels. ...
  3. Pack vitamins in carry-on bag. ...
  4. Have a pouch or pill case to store vitamins.


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