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Heathrow Airport- Question About Medications Rules for Travellers

Can anyone shed some light on Heathrow Airport's requirements regarding bringing in medications? I'm specifically wondering whether you can bring two clear plastic quart bag (one for general liquids) and one for your medications, liquid and non-liquid (I've done this here in the U.S. with no issues, but have heard different stories about whether it's ok in the UK). If they don't want two plastic bags, are you supposed to carry your meds loose and place them in a bin that way for screening? This might sound silly, but there is a distinct lack of specifics on this subject on the UK's airport security website, other than saying that you can carry meds in your luggage destined for the hold if not needed when flying. We are only travelling with carry-ons for the flight there, by the way.

Thank You

Posted by
16409 posts

Can anyone shed some light on Heathrow Airport's requirements regarding bringing in medications?

You can bring in whatever you want. You don't go through security entering the country.

Posted by
1082 posts

As Frank said, you go thru US security to leave the US so that’s what you need to worry about. If you’re going thru Heathrow to depart the UK, that’s another matter, then you do go thru their security and must abide by their requirements which are listed on their website.

Posted by
2805 posts

You don’t need to put your medications (unless liquid) in a clear plastic quart bag. I always take my medication and supplements and have no problems.

Posted by
1227 posts

"Medicines, medical equipment and dietary requirements. You’re allowed to carry the following in your hand luggage:

"essential medicines of more than 100ml, including liquid dietary foodstuffs and inhalers, and medical equipment, if it’s essential for your journey
"You’ll need to carry proof that the medication is prescribed to you (for example a letter from your doctor or a copy of your prescription) if it’s both:

  • in liquid form

  • in a container larger than 100ml

"You do not need to show proof if the medication is either in tablet form or liquid in a container that’s 100ml or smaller

"There are different rules if you are travelling with medicine that contains a controlled drug."

The above is verbatim from https://www.gov.uk/hand-luggage-restrictions/essential-medicines-and-medical-equipment