New Foreign Office Portugal alert for British tourists taking medication

New Foreign Office Portugal alert for British tourists taking medication Latest travel advice for updated information about travelling with medication The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued an alert today (July 17), updating its travel advice for British tourists travelling to the European hotspot with medication. With the peak travel season almost here, families up and down the country are set to go away on holiday as schools close, with Portugal a top pick for many. Plenty of people will pack various medications with them when going on holiday, and for anyone going to Portugal, the FCDO has shared the latest information to keep in mind. It says: "The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries." The FCDO says there are strict rules around dispensing certain medicines in Portugal, including antibiotics. It explains: "UK prescriptions are not recognised so bring in Portugal. "Carry enough medication for your visit. Keep the medication in the original container with the prescription label. UK prescriptions are not recognised in Portugal. Carry enough medication for your visit." It continues: "If you need a repeat prescription, go to the nearest health centre or hospital A&E. You may have to pay for your medication. You will need to go to a pharmacy to get most medicines, though some non-prescription medication is sold at health stores in supermarkets and shopping centres. Find a pharmacy on the Pharmacy Association website." Holiday-goers can read best practices when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. Changes to your routine when travelling, such as later nights, coping with heat and changes to your diet, can have an impact on your medication. See the Summer Proof Your Health campaign for more information. Key advice when travelling with medication from FCDO Check your destination before bringing medication with you. The FCDO advises reviewing the specific country page for the place you are visiting (and transiting). Many include a 'Health' section with medication notes. Some countries have strict rules on certain medicines (including over-the-counter ones). Generally, it is best to: - Carry medication in its original pharmacy packaging, with a copy of your prescription and a letter from your prescriber/doctor. - Keep it primarily in hand luggage (with some extra in hold luggage as backup). - Take enough for your entire trip plus extra for delays. - The legal status of your medication (including some OTC items) can differ abroad — some countries ban or restrict substances legal in the UK. What are the rules for controlled drugs like certain painkillers? - For quantities of three months' supply or more, you may need a UK export licence (apply at least 10 days in advance). - Carry a doctor's letter detailing your name, the medication (generic name, dose, quantity), travel dates, and reason. - Always check rules for your destination country via its embassy/high commission in the UK. Travellers can stay up to date with the latest travel advice on the FCDO country page. There is also the NaTHNaC Medicines factsheet. Gov.uk also offers guidance on taking medicine in or out of the UK. People can also contact the destination country's embassy for specific import rules.