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Topics: Health, News, Travel, Mental Health
Madison Burgess
Holidaymakers have been issued a warning against bringing certain types of painkillers to the airport as they could be met with issues when they arrive at their destination.
If you’re heading on a boozy party holiday, it’s to be expected you’ll be all stocked up on paracetamol and ibuprofen for when the dreaded hangovers hit.
Other popular medicines that Brits take abroad include antihistamines for hay fever sufferers, as well as motion sickness tablets for those who struggle with the travel elements.
You’ll be glad to know that all of these are of course fine, however, there are some stronger painkillers you need to make sure you leave at home.
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It also depends where you’re heading, as different countries have different rules travellers need to abide by.
You could get a fine or go to prison if you travel with medicine that’s illegal in another country.
First of all, it’s important to check that your pills are compliant with the UK’s Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and are not controlled drugs.
If you do need to leave the country with medicine that contains a controlled drug, you will have to secure a letter from your doctor to prove its intended use.
The letter will need to include your name and a list of the medicine you have been prescribed, including doses, strength and frequency.
The Government website explains that it also must be evident that you are not carrying more than a 3-month supply and you’ll need the signature of the person who prescribed your drugs and their professional registration details.
If you are travelling abroad for longer than three months and need a longer supply of the drugs, you will need a personal export licence from the Home Office.
Now, onto three painkillers you need to be wary of and would need written permission for.
A lot of people aren’t aware that travelling into countries like Thailand and the United Arab Emirates with codeine could actually get you arrested, according to The Mirror.
Some popular examples of medicines that contain codeine include Nurofen Plus and Solpadeine.
The second and third strong painkillers that are prohibited in the same countries are morphine and tramadol.
This is due to the potential for misuse and their reputation for being highly addictive.
And it’s not just these three drugs - it’s important to check the rules no matter which country you are visiting as they often have different regulations.
Other medications you need permission for include sleeping pills, anti-anxiety medication, and ADHD medication.
Greece, Japan, Mexico, and India are also known for being particularly strict on the drugs that are allowed in and how much of them you can bring.
So, if you’re planning a big holiday this summer, just make sure you do your research and get the right permissions before packing your bag!