I knew how to proceed with medicines on international trips

Passagens, lodging, tourist route. These are just some of the concerns of those who want to make an international trip.

For a significant portion of the population, the list has one more item: medicines. Cultivating the so-called “farmacinha”, which can include remedies for pains, fevers, allergies and anger, in addition to controlled medications, has become a habit.

It is possible to travel to outside of Brazil carrying medicines. See some tips below.

When the remedy is in liquid or spray form, or in transport, it is a little more restricted, it is also possible to carry up to 100 ml in the bag of hand, in sealed, transparent packaging, as explained by the infectious disease doctor Karen Mirna Loro Morejón, of the Department of Medicine for Travelers and Immunizations of the Hospital das Clínicas of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto of the University of São Paulo (USP).

For those who take medicine for continuous use, the recommendation is to take enough medication for the period in which to stay outside the country.

The presentation of two remedies changes from country to country, as well as the composition of them, which in Brazil are not approved by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). Therefore, the recommendation is to take the original packaging, second to a specialist.

medical prescription

A medical prescription used in Brazil is not valid for other countries, but it is always good to take a prescription from your doctor in case of inspection at the airports. Além disso, having the fiscal note of the purchase is also recommended.

If the destination of the trip is in the Northern Hemisphere, attention is required because the use of dipyrone – analgesic and antipyretic – is prohibited, widely used in the country. Also, some countries require a medical prescription for the purchase of anti-inflammatory drugs, which are sold freely in Brazil.

Diabetic people, who use insulin, must certify that there is a cold room service, in cases of medicines that need to be stored at low temperatures. Até lá, add and condition this remedy in a thermal container.

If it is necessary to carry items such as needles, syringes and bronchodilators – the famous asthma bombs -, it is necessary to present them with a medical prescription, to avoid problems and also in sufficient quantity for the travel period.

The entry of medicines or products is subject to the laws of the country of destination, so be informed by the embassy or consulate, so as not to be surprised during the trip.

The remedies for children and dependents must also be listed. The infectologist doctor also emphasizes the importance of taking dressings, antiseptic, cotton and thermometer.

(With information from the Jornal da USP)