My periferral neuropathy is controlled by bi-weekly B-12 shots. We plan to be in France/Italy for nearly 2 months this summer. I assume that I cannot travel with syringes in my carry-on luggage. Can they be purchased in europe w/o a perscription (or with a US perscription)? Is my only alternative to check my luggage?
John
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5560 posts
Syringes can be carried on. To see if this applies to you, I would suggest that you read the tsa website regarding travelling with medications:
www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/specialneeds/editorial_1374.shtm#4
Even if you carry on, I would still suggest that you carry a copy of your prescription.
Posted by
Freedonia
15206 posts
The syringes shouldn't be a problem if you bring proof that you need them. Bring both the prescription and a letter from your doctor to help not only at TSA but while traveling in Europe. Better safe than sorry.
The only problem you may face is that you have to prove you may need the shots in flight.(Make sure the letter says it should stay with you at all times.) Otherwise, you'll have to check your luggage.
Posted by
Lewiston, Idaho, USA
2091 posts
John, I NEVER put anything in cargo that is at all valuable to me on the slight chance I might never see my cargo bag again! I would guess that your prescription would say "as needed" and therefore you would be able to take everything needed on board. Prescribed medications should not be sent in cargo.
Posted by
Frankfurt, Germany
8956 posts
I bring my syringes and never check them, always have them with my carry-on. They already have the medication in them. Though I have a card from the Dr. etc. and I tell security ahead of time, I have never even been questioned. They don't bat an eye. I really thought it would be difficult last year, but it wasn't. I keep mine in a seperate cooler bag, so maybe that made a difference to Security?
Posted by
Charlotte, NC, USA
3428 posts
Syringes should be treated like any other medical device. For a while I had to take twice weekly shots. I took my pre-filled syringes with me. DO take a letter from your doctor. And I would pack them in a baggie with the vial of medication in another baggie inside that one. I'd also take at least a few extras. DO NOT check these! The risk of loosing luggage is too great. TSA should not object, even though you won't need them in-flight. CPAP machines are not needed in flight- but they can be carried on.
Posted by
OP
Clovis, CA, USA
4 posts
Thanks very much for those thoughtful replies to my question. They are very helpful.
John
Posted by
Taylor, TX, USA
416 posts
Given the way the attempted Christmas Day bombing was carried out, I would definitely carry documentation as to what the syringes are for, what they contain (if pre-filled) and so forth.