Ramon asked
Can you take prescription medicine on a plane? I am going on a trip soon.
Answer
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), prescription medication is allowed both in checked and carry-on baggage. Due to the possibility of checked baggage getting lost, prescription medication should always be carried in your carry-on baggage. The last thing a traveler wants to deal with is lost baggage that contains medication that maybe life sustaining.
Travelers should be aware of the screening process when taking medication through security. All prescription medication should be carried in the original prescription bottles or packages that have the prescription label attached, though this is not a requirement of TSA policy. Some state laws have this requirement.
You will be responsible for the handling of the medication. The following steps should be taken when going through security with prescription medication.
- It is not a requirement to present your medication during the screening process or notify a TSA officer about any medication unless it is in liquid form.
- If the medication is in liquid form, you must alert the TSA agent that you have medically necessary medication at the beginning of the screening process. From there, the TSA agent will describe the proper procedure and process for that particular airport.
- Be sure to remove from carry-on baggage any accessories that are medically necessary, like syringes or catheters.
- Medically necessary liquids are not required to be placed in a 3 ounce zip-top bag like shampoo, toothpaste or other personal items. In addition, the 3.4 ounce limit does not apply to medical liquids as long as they are properly labeled.
- Medically necessary liquids, gels or aerosols may require additional screening for explosives including X-ray and opening of the item. Should you not want the item opened or X-rayed, additional screenings including a pat-down and screening of other carry-on items will be necessary to clear the medication.
Communication with the TSA officer and patience are keys. Being upfront with TSA personnel will help move you quickly through security and get you to your final destination.
