- The warning comes from the UK’s largest independent pharmacy chain.
British holidaymakers could unknowingly put themselves at risk of being detained abroad simply by having prescription drugs in their luggage.
With the school summer holidays just a few weeks away, millions of Brits are preparing to head off to warmer climates.
While some travelers may have been warned to be careful about bringing prescription and over-the-counter medications, some may not be aware of the risks they face.
Well Pharmacy is calling for clarity among Britons about the legality of medicines which were used more than 86 million times last year.
Read on to find out about five common drugs that could get you in trouble with the law if you’re found in possession of them abroad.
At the top of the list are opioids such as OxyContin, Vicodin, morphine and codeine, which are banned in more than 25 countries, including Germany and Australia.
The UAE has a zero tolerance stance towards a range of over-the-counter drugs that are routinely sold in the UK.
Sleeping pills such as Temazepam are illegal in the UAE and UK travellers found in possession of these products could face jail.
Those who suffer from toothache or headaches while travelling in India will have to deal with the symptoms without the use of their usual medicines.
Health authorities have banned fixed-dose combinations containing amoxicillin and paracetamol.
Anyone found to have violated the law could face a minimum of six months in prison and a fine of 10,000 rupees (£93.53).
Greece has always been a popular destination for Brits wanting to soak up the local culture while also getting some sun.
However, the popular summer holiday country has very strict regulations in place regarding what medicines can be brought into the country.
Brits can bring in up to five prescription medicines for personal use, but only two boxes of medicine.
If you require further medicines, you will need to obtain authorization from the Hellenic National Medicines Agency upon arrival in Greece.
Authorities may grant permission, but because codeine is a controlled substance, they likely won’t allow it across the border if it’s purchased over the counter.
Mexico is stepping up preparations to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with 13 matches scheduled to be played in the country.
The tournament starts in less than two years and Brits need to know what paperwork they need to take the medicine with them.
Prescription medicines can be brought into the country for personal use, but you must be prepared to obtain detailed documentation.
This is required by your doctor and must state exactly how much medication you need, how much to take per day, and how much you will be bringing into the country.
Tourists may not bring in more medicines than are necessary for the duration of their stay.
Visitors from the UK should also be aware that the entire prescription must be written in Spanish.
Spain is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, but if citizens forget their prescriptions or medical records, their medicines will be confiscated.
With over 17 million Brits choosing to head to the Iberian Peninsula in search of sunshine last year, it’s vital Brits are aware of Spain’s customs laws ahead of their summer holidays.
George Sandhu, deputy director of pharmacy at Well Pharmacy, said: “It is important that travellers understand that any over-the-counter medications they take abroad must be stored correctly and within their expiry dates.”
“There are a range of over-the-counter medicines available in the UK, but there are different laws around the world which differ from the UK.
“British travellers should be aware of the risks of travelling with prescription medicines and always carry a doctor’s note with their medication.”
“If travellers find expired medication while packing their suitcases, they should take it to the nearest pharmacy for safe disposal.”
“Patients who have questions about the medications they are taking before traveling should speak to their pharmacist, who can provide advice.”
