Does anyone know the rules for bringing medications, e.g., an antibiotic, into Portugal? I can't seem to find anything from an authoritative source online.
Posted by
Connecticut
57 posts
AJ,
Just make sure they are in their prescription containers. You will have any problems no matter what the prescription is for
Dennis
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
7570 posts
What you will find is not "official" but guidance. The most common guidance is that you should travel with medication in it's original container, and only medication for personal use.
Their concern is smuggling, so if you show up with a 1000 doses of antibiotic for a 2 week trip, that would raise a flag.
Your concern is having what you need for the trip and your health. You should be fine, take what you need plus a buffer in case you are delayed. Also bring a copy, or have it on your phone, the prescription or picture of the label. This is in case you lose your pills, they fall down the drain, or your bag disappears, it will ease getting replacements. Do put them in your carry-on or personal bag, not checked luggage.
Bags are not routinely screened when arriving in Europe (except checked bags) so no one will likely ask or check.
Posted by
271 posts
It is also advisable to have the doctor's prescription - I have never been asked but travel friends have.
Posted by
Big Island of Hawaii
682 posts
I've traveled to many different countries in Europe and always take my medications in the original bottle, just for convenience. No-one has ever asked to look at my carry-on bags upon arrival, so having medications has never been an issue. We were just in Portugal in June (flew in and out of Lisbon twice), so this is based on recent experience.
Posted by
OP
8 posts
Thank you all so much. Incredibly helpful!