If you’re away from home without your medication, you can usually get a replacement by going through the right steps.

Realizing you don’t have your medication while on vacation is a scary moment, but you’re not alone. Travel is a common reason people miss doses or disrupt their medication routines.

This guide will walk you through exactly what to do to get the help you need, how to navigate medical systems away from home, and how to keep yourself safe.

If you’ve just unpacked your bag and realized you don’t have your medication, follow these steps for getting a replacement.

Call your home doctor

First, call your primary care doctor or the specialist who prescribes your medication. They can advise you on what to do if you miss a dose.

If you’re traveling within your own country, you can often have a new prescription delivered to a pharmacy near you. If you’re abroad, your doctor can email you a description of your condition and the treatment plan, which will help a local doctor understand your needs.

Identify the generic name of your medication

Brand names for drugs can change from country to country. For example, a drug sold under one name in the United States might have a different brand name in Europe or Asia. However, the generic or chemical name remains the same. You need to know this name to get the right replacement. If you don’t know it, look it up online or ask your doctor when you call them.

Locate a reputable pharmacy or clinic

If you’re in a foreign country, you can’t use a U.S. prescription at a local pharmacy. You will need to see a local doctor to get a new prescription valid in that country. You can find lists of local doctors and hospitals on the U.S. embassy or consulate website for the country you’re visiting.

Prepare to pay

Your home health insurance might not work abroad. The U.S. government does not pay for medical expenses for travelers, and many foreign medical providers require immediate payment or a deposit before they will treat you. If you have travel insurance, check your policy or call your insurer to see if you’re covered for prescription replacement abroad.

Don’t mail medication

You might be tempted to have a friend or family member mail your forgotten medication to you. Don’t do this. Mailing prescription drugs internationally is often illegal and can lead to the package being seized by customs. It’s safer and faster to get a new supply at your destination.

Check your destination’s drug laws

Some medications, such as certain drugs for ADHD or anxiety, are controlled substances or may not be approved in other countries. Always check the embassy website of the country you’re in to understand their rules.

In some situations, not having your medication with you can lead to a medical emergency. Go to the hospital or urgent care centre if any of the following apply to you:

  • You rely on life-sustaining medication: Examples include insulin for diabetes, inhalers for severe asthma, or heart medication. Missing doses of these medications can be dangerous.
  • You feel symptoms returning: Seek help if you feel chest pain, shortness of breath, severe mood changes, or other serious symptoms related to your condition.
  • You are unsure of the risk: If you don’t know if it’s safe to wait for replacement medication, seek medical advice immediately.

In most cases, no. Laws vary, but generally, pharmacists can’t dispense prescription-strength drugs without a valid prescription from a doctor licensed in that country.

If you’re in the United States, your doctor can usually send a prescription to a pharmacy in another state. However, if you’re in another country, your doctor can’t send a prescription there. You must see a local doctor to get a prescription that’s valid in that country.

It depends on the medication. In some cases, missing a day might be fine, but for others, it can lead to complications. You must contact your doctor to discuss the specific risks associated with your condition.

It’s a good idea to carry a copy of your prescription and, if possible, a letter from your doctor describing your medical condition and the medication you take, including the generic name.

How to prevent forgetting your medication

Take these steps to ensure you’re never without your prescription medications when you’re away from home:

  • Keep original containers: Keep your medications in their original, labeled containers. This proves that the medication was prescribed to you and helps customs officials verify its identity.
  • Pack extra: Always bring enough medication for your whole trip, plus a few extra days’ supply in case of travel delays.
  • Use carry-on luggage: Instead of packing your medication in your suitcase, keep it in your carry-on bag, so it’s less likely to get lost.

Forgetting your medication is stressful, but by calling your doctor and finding a reputable local clinic and pharmacy, you can usually get a replacement prescription.

To avoid being without your medication in the future, always pack extra in your carry-on bag and keep it in its original container.

Disclaimer: While Healthline strives for factual, comprehensive, and current information, this article is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional’s expertise. Always consult a doctor before taking or discontinuing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not cover all uses, directions, precautions, warnings, interactions, reactions, or adverse effects. The lack of a warning does not guarantee a drug’s safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for all patients or specific uses. Learn more about our approach to content integrity.