Taking simple, everyday medicines from Australia into certain countries can result in hefty fines or even jail sentences, according to insurance company Suresave. Executive director Michael McAuliffe said it's important for travellers to know which medicines to pack and which to avoid.
"Over the last decade or so, countries around the world have been cracking down on pseudoephedrine-based medications to stem the manufacture of illicit substances, such as methamphetamine," said McAuliffe.
"Japan is a prime example of a country that's very tough on cough and cold remedies containing high concentrations of pseudoephedrine and codeine. While these are commonplace in Australia, anyone found bringing sizable amounts of these types of remedies into Japan will immediately be treated as a drug dealer."
Even more stringent laws are in place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A wide range of common medicines, including codeine-based painkillers, valium and ritalin, are illegal in the UAE.
"Should they be found on a traveller, there can be serious consequences. Even the most miniscule traces of any controlled substance on an individual's person, or in some cases, in their bloodstream, can potentially land them in prison. In one high profile case, a British woman was found to have codeine in her body and was held in a Dubai jail for eight weeks before being sent home. Travellers need to be aware," said McAuliffe.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) web site advises travellers requiring medications to check with the appropriate consulate or embassy regarding what is allowable and what extra information may also need to be supplied. It may be necessary to obtain a Customs clearance or import permit.
Taking simple, everyday medicines from Australia into certain countries can result in hefty fines or even jail sentences, according to insurance company Suresave. Executive director Michael McAuliffe said it's important for travellers to know which medicines to pack and which to avoid.
"Over the last decade or so, countries around the world have been cracking down on pseudoephedrine-based medications to stem the manufacture of illicit substances, such as methamphetamine," said McAuliffe.
"Japan is a prime example of a country that's very tough on cough and cold remedies containing high concentrations of pseudoephedrine and codeine. While these are commonplace in Australia, anyone found bringing sizable amounts of these types of remedies into Japan will immediately be treated as a drug dealer."
Even more stringent laws are in place in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A wide range of common medicines, including codeine-based painkillers, valium and ritalin, are illegal in the UAE.
"Should they be found on a traveller, there can be serious consequences. Even the most miniscule traces of any controlled substance on an individual's person, or in some cases, in their bloodstream, can potentially land them in prison. In one high profile case, a British woman was found to have codeine in her body and was held in a Dubai jail for eight weeks before being sent home. Travellers need to be aware," said McAuliffe.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) web site advises travellers requiring medications to check with the appropriate consulate or embassy regarding what is allowable and what extra information may also need to be supplied. It may be necessary to obtain a Customs clearance or import permit.
