Prescription Drugs Policy

If you have a medical condition which requires regular doses of prescription medications, you will need to bring your prescriptions along when you travel. Adhering to prescribed air travel regulations will assure that you have the medications you need available on the aircraft. Following a few additional recommendations for packing prescription medications will further lessen any possible complications while travelling by air.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website states that passengers with medical conditions are not subject to the same restrictions for their liquid or gel medications as are imposed on other liquids carried on board. However, liquids and gels that exceed the general allowance for liquids in carry on luggage must be declared to the TSA agent, kept separate from other liquids in carry on luggage and subjected to separate security screening. The TSA website also allows passengers to carry non-liquid medications on board the plane without restriction. Non-liquid medications will also be subject to security screening.

Both non-liquid and liquid medications are subject to x-ray screening. Passengers can request manual screening of medications as a courtesy before the screening process begins. If you refuse to allow your medication to be screened, you have to leave it behind or won't be allowed past security.

TSA recommends prescriptions be clearly labeled with the name of the passenger. TSA also recommends that passengers provide a physician's letter or other verification to accompany prescription medications. If the name on a prescription label does not match the name of the passenger, TSA agents require a satisfactory explanation before the passenger is allowed to board the plane. Travelers should also be aware that many foreign pharmacies require a physician's letter ito fill a prescription, according the U.S. Department of State website.