Airports And Medicine: What's Available For Purchase?

Airports are complex, multipurpose hubs that provide passengers with facilities such as restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues. In addition to these services, modern airports may also have pharmacies and medical clinics. Pharmacies at airports can be a convenient source of medicines and essential health supplies for travellers, especially during long-haul flight stopovers or medical emergencies.

When travelling with medication, it is important to be aware of the regulations and requirements of the specific country and airport. In general, it is recommended to have a valid prescription or doctor's note, preferably in English, and to keep the medication in its original container. While some airports allow unlimited amounts of solid medications, restrictions on liquid medications are more common. It is also important to declare liquid medications before the security screening and be prepared for additional screening, such as opening the container or providing a sample.

Airport pharmacies can provide essential health services for travellers

During the COVID-19 pandemic, airport pharmacies played a crucial role in supplying face masks, gloves, and other PPE, providing COVID-19 test results, and offering health updates and safety advice to travellers. This highlights the importance of airport pharmacies in supporting travellers' health and well-being, particularly during public health emergencies.

Furthermore, airport pharmacies can serve a diverse range of customers, including aircrew, staff working in various airport services, security personnel, government officials, and travellers with specific health needs, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions or disabilities. By offering a range of professional services, including dispensing medications, providing health products and general health services, travel health services, and counselling, airport pharmacies cater to the unique needs of their clientele.

Additionally, airport pharmacies can assist travellers in navigating the challenges of transporting medications through airport security and customs. They can provide guidance on regulations, quantity limitations, and documentation requirements, ensuring that travellers comply with the laws of their destination countries and avoid potential penalties.

While the specific services and medications available at airport pharmacies may vary by country and individual airport, they play a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of travellers, airport staff, and crew. With the expanding aviation industry, airport pharmacies have the potential to become even more integral to travellers' health and medicine needs in the future.

Medication in solid form can be brought in unlimited amounts

When travelling with medication, it is generally recommended to have a valid prescription or doctor's note—written in English—and to keep the medication in its original container. If you do not have the original container, it is advisable to bring a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor explaining your condition and the treatment plan. It is also a good idea to bring copies of all written prescriptions, including the generic names of the medications.

In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require passengers to have medications in prescription bottles, but cautions that different states have individual laws regarding the labelling of prescription medication. The TSA recommends keeping medication in a carry-on bag, as checked baggage may be lost or delayed. Medication can be screened via X-ray or visually inspected; if you prefer a visual inspection, you must make this request before sending any items through the X-ray machine.

When travelling internationally, it is important to be aware of the regulations for controlled substances, as these vary by country. For example, in the United Kingdom, travellers must carry proof—such as a letter from a doctor or a copy of a prescription—for liquid medications exceeding 100 milliliters (3.38 ounces). In Canada, visitors are allowed to bring an unlimited amount of prescription drugs in tablet form and prescription and non-prescription liquid medications in quantities greater than 100 milliliters in their carry-on bags.

Medication in liquid form is subject to restrictions

When bringing liquid medications through security, the TSA 3-1-1 rule does not apply. Instead, reasonable quantities are allowed, but this is a subjective definition, and there is room for agent discretion. It is recommended to have a clear stated purpose for the quantity of liquid medication you are bringing and to have a signed doctor's note explaining why you need that amount. You could also explain your dosage requirements in relation to the quantity of medication you are bringing. For example, bringing 100g of medication for a 10-day trip when you require 10g per day makes sense, but bringing 3,000g for a weekend trip when you require 10g per day could be an issue.

TSA also states that you should notify them about your liquid medication before going through security screening. Although not always necessary, disclosing your medication can make the process easier. This is especially true if you are traveling with accessories associated with your liquid medication, such as freezer packs, IV bags, pumps, and syringes. If TSA notices your liquids or you inform them, the medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening, which could include opening the container, pouring the substance into another container, testing a small sample, or swabbing it for explosives.

When packing liquid medication, it is recommended to keep them organized in a clear plastic bag to facilitate the security process. Labeling your medication is not required but is recommended by the TSA.

Medication should be in its original container

When travelling with medication, it is important to keep it in its original container. This is because, in some countries, you may be required to show proof of prescription or a doctor's note. While the TSA does not require medication to be in its original container, individual states have different laws regarding the transportation of prescription medication. Some states may require you to carry your pills in a bottle with a prescription, so it is always a good idea to keep your pills in a bottle with a prescription label if possible.

Additionally, if you are travelling with liquid medication, the TSA will allow you to bring "reasonable quantities" for your trip. However, if you are bringing a large amount, it is a good idea to have a doctor's note explaining why you need that amount of medication. To avoid any issues, it is recommended to bring no more than a 90-day supply of medication and to have a copy of your prescription with you.

Furthermore, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations in your destination country. Some countries may have strict rules regarding prescription medication, and there can be serious consequences if you violate these laws. For example, authorities may confiscate your medication, or you may face penalties, including jail time. Therefore, it is always best to check with the destination country's embassy and the embassies of any countries you have layovers in to ensure your medications are permitted.

Controlled substances have stricter regulations

Controlled substances are typically drugs or chemicals whose manufacture, possession, or use is regulated by a government. The rules for travelling with controlled substances vary widely, and missteps can lead to delays, confiscation, or legal trouble.

When travelling with controlled substances, it's important to be aware of the legal implications, safety precautions, and specific rules related to air travel. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for checking your luggage and ensuring that all substances comply with federal regulations. It is essential to cooperate with TSA agents and follow their instructions.

• Proper Packing: Always pack controlled substances in your carry-on bag. Keep prescription medications in their original packaging, clearly labelled with your name and the prescribing doctor's details. For over-the-counter drugs, keep them in their original packaging as well.
• Declaration: Declare your controlled substances at the security checkpoint. This helps TSA agents understand your situation and can expedite the screening process.
• Documentation: Always carry your prescription or medical documentation with you. In the case of prescription medications, a copy of your prescription can further validate your need for the medication. If you're travelling with a large quantity of over-the-counter drugs, consider carrying a doctor's note.
• International Travel: When travelling internationally, research the controlled substance rules of your destination country. Regulations can vary widely, and you don't want to be caught unaware. Reach out to the country's consulate or embassy, or visit their official website to understand the specific regulations.
• Communication: If a TSA agent questions you about your substances, remain calm and explain your medical need, showing your prescription or doctor's note if necessary. Remember, they are there to ensure the safety of all passengers, so your cooperation is key.
• Unexpected Issues: Even with careful preparation, issues like lost or stolen medication may arise. Always carry a copy of your prescription, and know the generic name of your medication, as brand names can differ between countries. This will make it easier to replace your medication if needed.
• TSA Rules: While TSA rules are generally lenient regarding medication, they have specific restrictions on liquids. You are allowed to bring "reasonable quantities" of liquid medication for your trip. To avoid issues, it's best to have a clear purpose for why you need that quantity and, if possible, a signed doctor's note explaining the requirement.
• State Laws: Remember that state laws may differ regarding prescription items. Some states may require you to carry your pills in a bottle with a prescription label. Always keep up with the latest laws before departing, especially when travelling internationally.
• Refrigerated Medication: If you need to keep your medication refrigerated, you can use ice packs, freezer packs, or gel packs. Present these at the screening checkpoint in a frozen or partially frozen state.
• Syringes: Unused syringes are permitted when accompanied by injectable medication. Declare these items to security officers for inspection.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you're complying with the stricter regulations surrounding controlled substances when travelling through airports.

Frequently asked questions