Tourists travelling abroad who need medication may be breaking the law, even if it is prescribed.
Common medicine that can be bought over the counter, even flu medication or cold tablets could fall foul of the rules.
A number of tourists travelling to popular holiday destinations such as Dubai and Egypt have found themselves in trouble with government authorities due to a lack of awareness of the laws.
Kate Taylor, a pharmacist at LloydsPharmacy, spoke to Express.co.uk about certain countries that could confuse travellers.
Checking the ingredients is something that should always be done before packing any medication.
Japan: Anti-stimulant drugs banned
A number of anti-cold or flu tablets that can be bought over the counter are strictly prohibited in Japan.
This can include inhalers or allergy medicine also.
Anything containing Pseudoephedrine or codeine are included in the ban which are found in most medications.
Ms Taylor warns that some foreign nationals “have been detained and deported for offences”.
She advises checking with the Japanese Embassy regarding medication. before travelling to check that they are not banned.
UAE and Greece: Controlled drugs with strict rules
Drugs containing tramadol, codeine and Diazepam are “controlled drugs” when entering the UAE or Greece.
These have certain restrictions before they are allowed to be taken into the country, which will need to be met.
If they are not complied with, travellers can be arrested or fined.
Indonesia: Prescription drugs banned
Tourists may not realise that even if the medication is prescribed by a doctor with a note, they may not be allowed into the country.
In Indonesia, a number of medications are not allowed in no matter what.
Treatments for symptoms such as ADHD or sleeping tablets are strictly banned, along with anything containing codeine.
China: Certain medicines not available
Travellers heading to China will face difficulty finding certain medicines if they require them.
While there aren’t many drugs that are banned to be taken into the country, some are not available to be bought.
Tourists who need certain medicines should make sure to have a big enough supply when visiting the country.
A doctors note will be needed when carrying it into the country, as well as checking with the China embassy beforehand.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued the newest advice regarding prescription drugs.
