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Travel into Italy w prescription drugs

Firstly All That Answered Me
About 3 weeks ago I posted w concerns bringing medications into Italy. There was not a problem anywhere, I did keep a list of my meds with the original drug bottles. No problems w customs or sniffing dogs at any airport or train station.
Thanks Again Everyone

Ps. Trip was fabulous, thanks to the info I gleaned from this travel forum😊

Posted by
6462 posts

I'd be interested in any "official" lists of meds that might be illegal in Italy. Out of the blue, I just had a painful "run in" with a kidney stone. (Note to self, 10 or so Tums a day for a year or so, NOT a good idea, haha) I have a narcotic prescription in case I have another episode while in Italy. I have a note from my doctor and I will keep that prescription in its original container. But does anyone have an actual list or link to a list?

Posted by
28073 posts

It would be great to have a list from an Italian-government website, but I don't know whether such exists. I just Googled illegal medications Italy and got a lot of interesting-sounding links. I just don't know how accurate they are!

Posted by
6462 posts

@acraven. Thanks, I just thought I was incompetent in my search.

Posted by
28073 posts

Often the info's out there but doesn't come up easily via Google. When I stumbled on an online list of sightseeing attractions' hours for one of the Andalucian cities, I realized that including "Horario" in a search string might be helpful. I found a few other lists (compiled by local tourist offices) that way.

Posted by
8056 posts

This general topic come up often. I agree, laws and regulations vary greatly from country to country, having a bit more information would only be a good thing. Based on my experiences and discussions, I can offer the following observations.

  • General medications for the usual maladies in quantities for personal use (visiting for 30 days, have about that supply, not 180 days worth) are fine.
  • Having evidence of what you are prescribed is prudent, having information (Generic name, dosage, how many, how often, why) in case you need to get more, is critical.
  • Most Over the Counter (OTC) available here, are available there, in fact a number of prescription drugs here are available from a Pharmacist with no prescription there.
  • Oddly, some common OTC medications here, are not available there easily, mostly antihistamines and allergy medicines.
  • Any Opioid in today's environment deserves added concern. Certainly watch the quantity, have documents.
  • Very likely you will never encounter any officials with carry-on bags only. Checked bags likely do go through some screening before you see them, but if you keep within the guidelines above, there should be no concerns.
Posted by
6462 posts

Thanks Paul. Yes, my Rx is an opioid. I think there are only 10 pills. I have a doctor's note. I'm inclined to leave it at home since I am one who avoids medication and its unlikely I will need it, but I think I'd rather take it if necessary than go to an Italian hospital.

EDITED TO ADD: We are flying into Zurich and taking the train to Italy and flying out of Rome.

Posted by
8056 posts

Jules,
Since you may have a need, do not leave at home. You have a note, likely will never have to explain or use it, and even then, you have a very small amount. If you were taking 6 pills a day and needing to take a bunch with you, then be more prepared, but you easily fall into the category "not a concern".

Posted by
616 posts

Why not write to a hospital in Florence or Rome, asking them if it is allowed and how much you can take, or if with just a prescription, you can buy it at any pharmacy in Italy. Maybe also your doctor in the US could do that for you.
Many doctors in Florence do know English.