Prescriptions, Drugs, Alcohol

As you are planning to study abroad, it’s important to consider whether you will need to take with you any prescriptions or other medications. Also, keep in mind that consequences and penalties regarding alcohol and non-prescription drug use may differ in foreign countries.

Here are some guidelines to consider:

• If you take certain medications, check to make sure that the country you plan to visit allows them. [more about medications]
• Pack enough to last your entire trip, including some extra in case you spend more time abroad than originally planned.
  
• Carry all medications in their original labeled containers. Pack them in your carry-on baggage, because checked baggage can sometimes arrive late or get lost.
  
• Get a letter from your doctor in case you are questioned about your carry-on medications. Some countries have restrictions on bringing medications, prescription or otherwise, into the country without proper authorization.
  
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist for the generic equivalent name of all of your medications, in case you need to buy additional medications while abroad.
• Learn about how your use of non-prescription drugs and alcohol may impact your study abroad experience.