Sojourntraveller

I really wish some people would consider the fact that TSA is applicable only to the USA, not the world. It is no wonder that Americans get a reputation for being unable to see and unknowledgeable about, anything outside their own country.

Ceezee, fly to Greece with some over the counter Tylenol with codeine pills in a ziplock bag(or even in the original bottle) and see what happens if they see them. http://images.medscape.com/pi/featur...e/MCN05130.jpg

You will be questioned about bringing an illegal drug into the country. Do I need to spell out what their suspicions will be? What hassle you may encounter? The possible penalties if they choose to enforce them? Codeine is classed the same as Heroin in Greece.

How old an article is does not indicate that the information in it is wrong.

Cranachin

Here's what the US State Department says (although admittedly they give no details about which countries might cause you problems):

http://travel.state.gov/content/pass...checklist.html

<b>Are You Taking Any Prescriptions or Other Medications?</b>

If you take prescription medication:

* Pack enough to last your entire trip, including some extra in case you are unexpectedly delayed.

* Carry your medications in their original labeled containers, and pack them in your carry-on bag since checked baggage is occasionally lost or delayed.

* Ask your pharmacy or physician for the generic equivalent name of your prescriptions in case you need to purchase additional medication abroad.

* Get a letter from your physician in case you are questioned about your carry-on medication; some countries have strict restrictions on bringing prescription or even non-prescription medications into the country without proper medical documentation.

The Canadian government gives similar (generic) warnings here:

http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/drugs

<b>Prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries</b>

Most of us know that “recreational” drugs, like marijuana, cocaine and ecstasy, are illegal almost everywhere. But in many countries, prescription drugs and medical supplies that are legal and readily available in Canada may also be considered illegal or arouse the suspicions of local customs officials.

<b>How to travel safely with prescription drugs</b>

Laws related to prescription drugs vary around the world. For detailed information, please visit the Prescription medication web page (http://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/medication).

Warning

Canadian visitors to the United States should be aware that their personal medication may be subject to U.S. drug importation laws and regulations. In general, personal importation of a 90-day (three-month) supply of medication is allowed, but only if the drug is not available in the United States.

<i>Did you know about that last provision? The USA is among the countries that can cause you trouble for improper importation of prescription drugs!</i>

Cranachin

Here's what the British government has to say about a specific country, the United Arab Emirates:

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-ad...ws-and-customs

"You should take care over the import of prescription drugs, some over-the-counter drugs and certain substances known as herbal highs, such as Spice or Space, which can include synthetic cannabinoids."


And this site, for the International Narcotics Control Board, is really comprehensive. It is about legally bringing controlled substances (including 119 narcotic drugs and certain psychotropic substances) into various countries. http://www.incb.org/incb/en/psychotr...gulations.html

mrwunrfl

Just throw those old pills out. Get some new ones in US or SA that are good for the country where you are traveling.

http://www.cdc.gov/malaria/travelers...y_table/a.html

suze

Of course this proves nothing, but I have never once been questioned about lose pills I have with me traveling. Ever.

apersuader65

>>The question is COULD someone be stopped and hassled and the obvious answer is, yes they could. <<

And, of course you could carry all the drugs properly, abide by all laws of every state or country that you travel in - and STILL be stopped and hassled.

I personally find the entire TSA process akin to being "stopped and hassled" but I accept that as a part of travel.

Certain clear things here: There is NO federal law against traveling with your pills in a separate daily pill container. See http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/21...usc/index.html

State by state, it may be a different issue. As a former practicing attorney, I'll give this bit of information - if you bring with you copies of your prescriptions, or even a photograph on your pill bottles on your phone (including a group shot if you have many) would 1. help any enforcement agent to exercise discretion and/or 2. help a prosecutor exercise HIS/HER discretion if the party in 1. above doesn't.

Sojourntraveller

State by state it IS a different issue apersuader. Links to that have already been given above. But more importantly in my opinion, is that the rest of the WORLD is not governed by US Federal law. US-centric writing is an embarassment.

The OP is talking about travelling to Africa, so what the TSA (again US-centric) or US law has to say is totally irrelevant.

apersuader65

Sojourntraveller said:
"The OP is talking about travelling to Africa, so what the TSA (again US-centric) or US law has to say is totally irrelevant."

The OP said:
"Curious if security would confiscate them because I no longer have my prescription? (Either in the US or once in South Africa)"

I find it helpful to read the OP before posting myself.

Care to revise your asinine and arrogant comment?