Taking medication on holiday: Is your over-the-counter medicine legal?Article By: Helen Morris
Some medicines which are freely available in Canada could be illegal elsewhere. Here's how to stay healthy – and out of trouble – when you travel abroad.
Travel insurance helps to guard against unexpected problems on holiday. But what about health issues which we can predict? Did you know that some medicines which are freely available in Canada may be illegal in the country you plan to visit? If you take prescription or over-the-counter medicines on a regular basis it's worth doing some pre-trip preparation. Find out what you need to know to stay healthy – and out of trouble – when you travel abroad. Are your drugs legal? Japan has a strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. This means that the possession or use of Vicks inhalers and some prescription or over-the-counter medicines (such as common allergy and sinus medications) are illegal. Check with the Japanese Embassy in your country prior to departure if you are uncertain. Singapore: Ibuprofen is available from the local corner store in North America, but if you want this painkiller while visiting Singapore the government requires you to carry a prescription. More information about controlled substances can be found through the Health Sciences Authority. United States: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada warns that even personal medication may be subject to US drug importation laws and regulations. For instance, an individual traveller is permitted to bring in a 90-day supply of their own medication – but only if the drug is not available in the United States. Carrying larger quantities might suggest to the customs officer that you plan to sell the drug. The U.S. Food and Drug Association (FDA)’s
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