Summer holidaymakers heading to Portugal have been issued a warning that UK prescriptions are ‘not recognised’ in the country
People travelling with medication need to be aware of new guidance being issued(Image: georgeclerk via Getty Images)
With summer holiday season upon us, Brits have been issued fresh guidance on taking medication abroad as millions get ready to head to the airport for sun-soaked getaways. There are a series of rules and regulations on bringing medicines in or out of the UK that all travellers must be aware of.
The UK Foreign Office has updated its advice for travel to Portugal, informing holidaymakers that the legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. It warns that there are “strict rules” around dispensing certain medications in Portugal, including antibiotics.
The Foreign Office added: “UK prescriptions are not recognised in Portugal. Carry enough medication for your visit.”
Anyone bringing medication to Portugal is instructed to keep it in its original container with the prescription label. The Foreign Office also advised that holidaymakers follow guidance issued by Travel Health Pro, which advises that some countries may not allow the entry of certain types of medicines – including ones available over the counter in the UK.
Travellers are urged to ensure they pack enough of any essential medication to last the whole trip, including factoring in possible travel delays or lost luggage. If planning to fly with oxygen, insulin or other injectable medicines, it’s advised to contact the airline to make appropriate arrangements.
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Travel Health Pro warns: “Medications for recognised health conditions may come under intense scrutiny by foreign officials at border controls. This can result in delays, disruption or medicines being confiscated if the correct paperwork and permissions have not been arranged (e.g. where there are specific regulations and/requirements relating to taking a medication abroad such as for medications containing controlled drugs).
Rules depend on which country you are travelling to and the type of medication you bring(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
“On rare occasions, travellers who have been found to have drugs that are illegal at the destination or transit country have been imprisoned.”
The GOV.UK website states that anyone travelling abroad must carry medicine containing a controlled drug with them in their hand luggage when entering or leaving the UK. Advice outlines: “If you’re taking medicine out of the UK, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your medicine contains a controlled drug.
“If it does, check the rules for the country you’re going to with the embassy before you travel. You’ll need to prove it’s yours with either a prescription or letter from your doctor.”
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