Can we carry Insulin while travelling to US?

Question

My Mother-in-law is travelling to US in a couple of weeks time from India. She is a Diabetic on Insulin. Can she carry Insulin for her entire stay (4 months)? Does US law allow her to carry Insulin from India?

Thanks,

Adam

Answer 1

Typically, to carry prescription medicine, you must bring along the written prescription from the doctor.  It is also hlepful to have a letter written on the doctor's official office paper (with a printed overhead address) explaining the need for the syringes.

Be sure to put all that in the carry- on bag (with the insulin and syringes, alcohol wipes, etc.),  NOT in your suitcase --  so that it all can be inspected if necessary at security points.  Keep all the medicines and supplies in their original containers with the pharmacy label on it.

One good site for Americans is this:

http://www.smartertravel.com/travel-advi...

but i believe this would apply just as equally to nationals of other countries coming INTO the USA.   Since insulin is not a narcotic, this will be less tricky than if she were carrying narcotics from a  foreign  land into the USA.

To be on the safe side, you can also consult with the US Embassy office nearest to your mom's home.  

i hope this helps!

kathy, RN, MSN

Answer 2

Sure you can carry but take the doctor's precription along, just in case they question you.

Answer 3

yes - carry the prescription. u can also carry the syringe on the plane

AM

Answer 4

There are different types of insulin. Your MIL would first have to determine that the type she takes can be transported with refrigeration, etc. The expiry date would be an issue, too.

She would need to have a letter detailing the medication, including the length of her stay and the amount of medication needed to cover that stay. The medication of course would have to be in its original packaging.

Check out this website for more information.

http://www.tmvc.com.au/fs_medications.as...

It would be an excellent idea for your MIL to bring her medical records, a letter from her doctor and details of her medication. You could perhaps arrange a meeting with your physician here so continue your MIL's care, in the event that she cannot transport sufficient medication.

Answer 5

Yes - just carry the doctor's prescription with her.