Navigate prescription medicine abroad including bringing medications from home, finding local equivalents, prescription requirements, and managing chronic conditions.
Obare Obare
Dec 23, 2025 · Healthcare & Insurance
Prescription medication access varies globally. Understanding local regulations and obtaining necessary medications requires advance planning.
Carry medications in original packaging with doctor's prescriptions. Some countries restrict common medications like ADHD drugs or pain relievers. Check embassy websites for prohibited substances.
Your home medication may have different brand names abroad. Use generic names to find equivalents. Pharmacists can help identify local versions of your prescriptions.
Some countries allow over-the-counter sale of medications requiring prescriptions at home. Others restrict all medications requiring local doctor visits.
Verify prescription coverage in your health plan. Some policies only cover local medications, complicating international refills.
Legitimate international online pharmacies ship globally but verify legality in your host country. Avoid unverified websites selling controlled substances.
Establish care with local specialists early. Bring enough medication for 3 months while finding local providers to ensure continuous treatment.
