Taking medication on a cruise

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Taking medication on a cruise

On a cruise, you may visit several ports and customs territories. A medication prescribed in Germany is therefore not automatically permitted in every destination or transit country. Regulations may vary depending on the active ingredient, quantity and dosage form; some countries classify medicines as controlled substances. When planning your trip, also take stopovers and transit countries into account.

Rules along your route

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) point out that every country has its own laws governing medicines. A prescription that is customary in one country does not automatically prove that the medicine may be brought into another. The regulations of the country concerned are decisive. If you have specific questions, Germany’s Federal Foreign Office refers travelers to the embassy of the country concerned in Germany, which can provide authoritative information. A doctor’s note may be helpful during an inspection, but it does not replace any required import permit.

For controlled substances, larger supplies, syringes or liquid medicines, the relevant country’s requirements for the active ingredient, quantity and supporting documents apply. If a medication is not permitted at your destination, discuss possible alternatives only with the healthcare professional treating you. Do not stop taking a prescribed medicine or change its dose on your own because of a trip.

Supplies and documentation

Discuss the quantity you will need with your doctor’s office or pharmacy well in advance. Make sure you have enough for the entire cruise, as well as for possible delays or an unplanned extension. The CDC recommends carrying medicines in your hand luggage so they remain available if checked baggage is delayed or lost. If your trip will last more than 30 days, discuss your medication supply with the healthcare professional treating you.

Whenever possible, keep medicines in their labeled original packaging. Bring an up-to-date medication list and copies of your prescriptions; including the generic name of each medicine can also be helpful, since brand names may differ from country to country. The CDC also recommends carrying a letter from your healthcare professional for controlled substances or injectable medicines such as insulin. For travelers from Germany, the Federal Foreign Office recommends obtaining a current doctor’s certificate if you need a larger quantity for medical reasons or need to carry controlled substances. If you are traveling to a country where another language is spoken, the certificate should be written in English.

Transport and storage

Keep any medicines you need accessible while traveling to the ship. Follow the required storage temperature; the CDC notes that extreme temperatures can affect the effectiveness of some medicines. If refrigeration is required, check with the cruise line before departure to find out what facilities are available on your particular ship. A medication list with the active ingredient, dosage and times of administration can be helpful if medical staff on board have questions.

If you cross time zones, do not adjust your medication times to the new local time on your own. Ask your healthcare professional how to maintain the intervals between doses during your trip. This will help you coordinate preparation, transport and taking your medication with your route and individual treatment plan. For more cruise information, see Travel preparation and rules and Cruise travel tips. If you experience symptoms during your trip, hygiene on board is also important.