UK tourists have been warned that five common medications could land them in prison if taken on holiday this summer. The list includes hayfever pills, stimulants, CBD oil, ADHD medication, co-codamol, and sleeping pills. Several countries have strict rules about what can be brought through their borders.
Medications to Avoid
The warning specifically highlights stimulants, CBD oil, ADHD medication, co-codamol, and sleeping pills. Japan has strict rules against any stimulant drugs, including inhalers and allergy medications like Actifed, Sudafed, and Vicks. These items are banned even in small amounts.
Countries with Severe Penalties
Japan, Indonesia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have banned even trace amounts of co-codamol. In Hungary, possession can lead to a five-year jail sentence, while Sweden imposes a three-year sentence. In China, UK tourists need a GP's note for certain sleeping pills such as diazepam and temazepam.
In the UAE, being caught with CBD oil can result in a minimum fine of £10,000 and a mandatory four-year prison sentence. For ADHD medication, UK tourists must apply for prior approval from the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) before traveling to Singapore. Unapproved quantities are strictly forbidden.
Foreign Office Advice
The Foreign Office advises: "You must carry medicine containing a controlled drug with you in your hand luggage when entering or leaving the UK. It may be taken away from you at the border if you cannot prove it was prescribed for you."
The FCDO adds: "If you’re taking medicine out of the UK, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether your medicine contains a controlled drug. If it does, check the rules for the country you’re going to with the embassy before you travel. You’ll need to prove it’s yours with either a prescription or letter from your doctor."
For UK residents prescribed medicine abroad, they need to contact the Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit (DFLU). Non-UK residents must carry a letter proving the medicine was prescribed for them.
