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Travelling with Prescription Medication
Prescription medications for legitimate health conditions may come under scrutiny by foreign officials. In some countries, drugs that are legal and readily available in Canada can be illegal, require a prescription, or may arouse suspicions among local customs and immigration authorities. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa to confirm the status of different medications.
In general, Canadian visitors to the United States should be aware that their personal medication will be subject to U.S. drug importation laws and regulations. Also, generally speaking, personal importation of a 90-day supply of medication is allowed, but only if the drug is not available in the United States.
US customs officials have relaxed their policy on importation of prescription drugs through the mail from Canada. However, all packages are still carefully scrutinized. For further information, visit the website of the US Food and Drug Administration .
When travelling abroad with prescription or over-the-counter medication:
- Pack all medications in their original, labelled containers;
- Do not combine medications into a single container;
- Pack an extra supply of medication in case you are away for longer than expected; and
- Carry a copy of the original prescription and ensure that both the generic and trade names of the medication are included in case of loss or theft.
