Taking Medication to Turkey: What You Need to Know
If you’re planning of taking medication to Turkey it’s important to know what is allowed and not allowed under Turkish law. Turkey has strict regulations around medication and failure to comply with these regulations could result in serious consequences. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about taking medication to Turkey.
What Medications are Allowed in Turkey?
Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are allowed in Turkey as long as they are not on the list of controlled substances. However, it’s always best to double-check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your home country to ensure that your medication is permitted.
Do you have a medication related question?
What Medications are Not Allowed in Turkey?
Some medications that are legal in other countries may be illegal in Turkey. It’s important to be aware of these restrictions to avoid any legal issues. Here are a few examples:
- Medications containing codeine: Over-the-counter medications containing codeine, such as painkillers and cough syrups, are illegal in Turkey.
- Narcotics and psychotropic drugs: Certain narcotics and psychotropic drugs, such as morphine, oxycodone, and methadone, are strictly controlled in Turkey and may require special permits or prescriptions.
- Medications with a high dose of Vitamin A: Medications containing high doses of Vitamin A are also restricted in Turkey.
It’s important to note that even if a medication is legal in your home country, it may not be legal in Turkey. Always check the list of controlled substances before traveling to Turkey to ensure that your medication is permitted.
How to Bring Medication to Turkey
If you need to bring medication with you to Turkey, there are a few things you should do to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience:
- Get a Prescription: If you are bringing prescription medication with you to Turkey, make sure you have a prescription from your doctor. The prescription should include your name, the name of the medication, and the dosage.
- Pack Medication in Your Carry-On: Pack your medication in your carry-on bag so you have access to it during the flight and it won’t get lost or delayed with your checked luggage.
- Bring a Copy of Your Prescription: It’s a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription as well. This can be helpful if you need to get a refill while you’re in Turkey or if you are questioned about your medication at customs.
- Declare Your Medication at Customs: When you arrive in Turkey, you will need to declare any medication you are bringing with you. Make sure to have your prescription and any other relevant documentation ready to present to customs officials.
Do I need the prescription translated into Turkish?
While it’s not legally required to have a prescription translated into Turkish, it may be helpful to have a translated copy with you in case of any language barriers or questions from authorities. This can help to avoid any potential misunderstandings or delays at customs or when obtaining medication from a pharmacy in Turkey.
We do recommend 48 hours service if you need the letter immedately.
Taking medication to Turkey can be a bit complicated, but as long as you follow the country’s laws and regulations, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip. Make sure to research Turkey’s drug laws, get a prescription, pack your medication in your carry-on, bring a copy of your prescription, declare your medication at customs, and ensure that your medication is not on the list of controlled substances. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth trip and avoid any legal issues.
UK government Foreign Travel Advice for Turkey. Click here
Read The Ultimate Travelling to Turkey from the UK: A Comprehensive Guide