Because medication access and regulations differ internationally, preparation is key when traveling abroad with medications.
The following is Part 4 of a four-part series of brief, practical guidance to help our University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) community stay safe when traveling abroad. This guidance is intended for international personal travel; for UMB-related international travel, please consult the Global Hub and International Operations for additional information. The series was written by the UMB Office of Public and Occupational Health in collaboration with Wilbur Chen, MD, director of the Travel Medicine Practice at the University of Maryland School of Medicine's Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health.
Medication access and regulations differ internationally, so preparation is key.
Before departure:
- Bring enough medication for your trip, plus a few extra days in case your travel is extended or delayed.
- Keep medications in original containers in your carry-on.
- Carry prescription copies (use generic names when possible).
Check regulations:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Traveling Abroad with Medicine
- International Narcotics Control Board Traveling Internationally with Medicines Containing Controlled Substances
If medications are lost or stolen:
- Contact your provider and insurance company.
- Seek assistance from local clinics or embassy resources.
For individualized travel health guidance, schedule a consultation with the Travel Medicine Practice at the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health.