What to Do If You Find Yourself
Without Medication While Traveling
Forgetting medication, running out of your Rx, or developing a health issue while on the road is more common than you’d believe.
Travelers need to understand that acquiring medication outside your home country is not always as simple as walking into a pharmacy. Depending on your destination, some medications cannot be acquired without a prescription, may have different brand names, or be subject to specific regulations.
Here are some tips that can help resolve the situation more quickly and help you avoid travel setbacks.
If you take medication regularly, prepare before traveling
If you’re on regular course of Rx treatment, it’s advisable to pack enough medication to last the entire stay, plus a few extra days should unexpected delays occur.
This is especially important for treatment of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases or thyroid disorders, where interrupting medication can affect disease management.
It may also be helpful to bring:
❂ Copies of your prescriptions
❂ Medications in their original packaging
❂ A list with the generic name of each medication
❂ Information on dosage and frequency of use
This information can make it easier to refill your prescription should issues arise during your trip.
Also make sure to have a list of the generic name of each medication. Brand names may vary by country, though the generic name usually remains the same. This makes it easier for the pharmacist to identify the correct medication when you need to restock.
Getting additional medications can be a challenge
In some cases, medications may get lost, damaged, or run out sooner than expected. It’s also possible a new medical condition may arise during your trip that requires treatment, such as an infection, an allergic reaction or a digestive issue.
When this happens, getting the right medication isn’t always as simple as walking into a pharmacy. Rules for selling certain medications vary by country, and some treatments require a prescription issued by a local licensed healthcare professional.
For example, nasal congestion and allergy meds containing pseudoephedrine can be purchased over the counter in some countries. In other places, they’re stored behind the pharmacy counter and can carry a wide variety of restrictions. Rules can differ significantly country to country.
Additionally, medication you’re familiar with may be marketed under different names depending on the country. For example, acetaminophen is commonly marketed as Tylenol® in the United States, while many Latin American countries simply identify it as acetaminophen. That’s why it’s helpful to know your medications’ generic name, should you need to re-up it while traveling.
If you find yourself in this situation, you may also find it helpful to read: “What You Need to Know Should You Fall Ill While Traveling Abroad.”
Telemedicine can facilitate access to treatment
When symptoms do not require emergency care, a remote medical consultation can be a practical way to receive professional guidance.
Through VUMI’s Travel VIP®, policyholders have access to telemedicine services that offer video consultations with doctors from different countries.
Depending on the medical evaluation and regulations in effect at your location, this telemedicine consult can help you obtain necessary prescriptions without the need for an in-person consultation.
The Value of Having Medical Support While Traveling
When the need arises to seek treatment outside your home country, having medical guidance, access to prescriptions and support tools significantly simplifies the process.
Travel VIP® brings these services together in a single solution to help you receive medical care and treatment when you need it, where you need it.
Learn more here about the benefits of travel insurance and how it can help you should an unexpected situation arise during your travels.
If you’d like to learn more about the benefits and coverage of Travel VIP®, consult your insurance agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on the country’s regulations and the type of medication. Some treatments can be purchased over the counter, while others require a prescription.
Seek medical advice as soon as possible and have information about your regimen. This will facilitate a possible replacement.
Depending on the medical evaluation and the regulations in the country you’re currently visiting, Travel VIP’s telemedicine service may issue prescriptions for certain treatments.
Yes. Carrying copies of your prescriptions and information related to your regular treatments can facilitate medical care during your trip.
