Travelling when your medication is subject to shortages at home adds extra complexity. You need to ensure you have enough supply for your trip and plan for the possibility of not being able to get more while away.
Before You Travel
- Stock up in advance — request your prescription 4-6 weeks before travel. If your usual pharmacy can't supply enough, try others
- Get a letter from your GP — a letter confirming your medication needs can help if questioned at customs or if you need medical help abroad
- Check destination rules — some medications (especially controlled drugs like ADHD meds) have import restrictions in other countries
- Carry in hand luggage — always keep medication in your carry-on bag, never in checked luggage
- Bring original packaging — medication in its original pharmacy-labelled packaging avoids issues at borders
Controlled Drugs and Travel
If you take a controlled substance (e.g., methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, diazepam, codeine):
- For trips under 3 months: carry a letter from your prescriber and keep medication in original packaging
- For trips over 3 months: you may need a Home Office personal licence
- Some countries have strict rules — check the destination country's embassy website
- Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian countries often have particularly strict controlled substance rules
Getting Medication Abroad
If you run out while travelling:
- Within the EU: A UK prescription isn't valid, but a local doctor can issue a prescription
- Outside the EU: You'll need to see a local doctor for a prescription
- Travel insurance: Good travel insurance may cover emergency medication costs — check your policy
- EHIC/GHIC card: Covers emergency treatment in the EU, which may include emergency prescriptions
Related
See also
Prescription out of stock: what to do
How to prepare before travel when stock is tight
Most commonly shorted medicines in the UK
Medicines worth checking before trips
A-Z medicine shortage pages
Verify supply status before you travel
Data sources: DHSC Medicine Supply Notifications · NHSBSA Serious Shortage Protocols · NHS England
Page last updated: 7 March 2026. Data checked daily.
Page last updated: 7 March 2026. Data checked daily.