What to do if you forget or lose your meds when traveling abroad.
Medication is one of the most important things to remember to pack when you travel—it belongs on the essentials list: Passport? Credit card? Phone? Meds?
If you forget something like toothpaste or a bathing suit, you can likely buy a substitute where you’re going. Medication, on the other hand, is usually more complicated to replace, and is often one of those things you can’t go without even for a few days.
Here are some tips on how to prevent running out of your meds and what to do if you forget or lose them overseas.
Overpack
To avoid coming up short on your medications, bring more than you will actually need for the duration of your trip. That way if you drop a pill down the bathroom sink or your trip is extended a few days through choice or unforeseen circumstances, you’re covered.
Note: Be sure to check the restrictions for the country you’re heading to, as some prohibit certain controlled substances, such as narcotic and psychotropic medications used for mental health treatment in the U.S. Typically, countries allow you to bring in a 30-day supply of controlled substances; call the country’s embassy or check its webpage to find out specific restrictions.
Talk to your pharmacist
Check with your pharmacist or on the web before you travel to find out if the medication you take is available in the country you’re visiting. Your should also find out if and how that country’s version of a medication differs from the one you’re on.
Bring paper
Bring a copy of your original prescription as well as a letter from your doctor specifying the condition being treated, the dosage you’re taking, and the brand and generic names of the drug. This info will make your medication easier to replace.
Know the generic name
Medication brand names can vary from country to country; check on the web or ask your pharmacist for the generic names of your meds. For example, acetaminophen goes by the brand name Tylenol in the U.S; in U.K., it’s known as Paracetamol.
Also remember brand and generic drug names may differ from one country to another; the name of a drug you take at home may be for a totally different medication.
Find a doctor
Prescriptions cannot be filled abroad, nor can your primary care doctor call in a prescription for you. (Do remember that depending on the country, you may be able to get your medicine without a prescription.)
Hotel and credit card concierges and your travel insurance provider are good sources to consult if you need to find a doctor while abroad to write you a new Rx.
Find a pharmacy
Fill your prescription at a reputable pharmacy (ask for a recommendation from your hotel or the local tourist board) or find a large pharmacy in an urban center to lessen the chance of potential issues. Counterfeit drugs and contamination are a problem in many countries.
Double-check with the pharmacist filling your script that the drug you’re requesting actually treats your condition.
Twist’s Take: It’s difficult to replace prescriptions overseas. Put your med supply with your passport when packing so you don’t forget it!
