• Do not assume that prescription and over-the-counter medications available in the U.S. (or your home country) are approved or legal in another country. Consult with your treating physician at least two months prior to departure about specific medications, and obtain a list of comparable, generic names—including their dosage, composition, and the chemical names of active ingredients, which determines the permissibility of the medication in the foreign country. Plan to travel with “requisite medical documentation,” which includes a letter from the prescribing doctor.

• Be sure to consult with your physician and with International SOS about plans for obtaining any necessary prescription medication for your semester abroad

• Obtain a translation of your documentation, if possible.

• Some countries do not allow certain medications (including both prescription and non-prescription) and/or may require that you obtain a medical provider note or prescription documentation. Pain medications, ADD/ADHD stimulants, steroids, sedatives/anxiety medications, and injectable medications of any type may need additional documentation or may be illegal in certain countries. If you are in possession of illegal medications (even if you obtained them legally in the U.S.) or do not have the proper documentation, your medications may be confiscated, and you could be arrested or deported.

• Medication should be packed in its original container with the traveler’s name on them. Do not combine different medications in one container in order to save space.

• Pack your medication in a carry-on bag, because your checked baggage is occasionally lost or delayed.

• Third parties should not carry prescription medication for another person.

• Travelers should not travel with more than personal-use quantities. This generally means no more than a 90-day supply (in some countries 30 days).

• Declare all prescription medications on the Customs form when you arrive in country.

• Students with diabetes and those who use any injectable medications should obtain and carry, at all times, a doctor’s letter explaining the need to carry needles and syringes.

You may find that you need to refill your prescription while abroad. Many pharmacies in other countries will only fill prescriptions written in that country (i.e., that are prescribed by doctors who are licensed to practice in that country). It will be critical to have a letter from your physician during this appointment that explains the diagnosis, treatment, and medication regimen.