If you are planning to take a trip that involves air travel, you may find yourself wondering about the logistics of taking compounded medications through airport security. At Keystone Compounding Pharmacy, we understand that having access to your medications while traveling is important, so we wanted to go ahead and answer some of the most commonly asked questions about bringing compounded medications through airport security. Let’s go ahead and get started:
Which compounded medications can I take through airport security?
You are allowed to bring any of your compounded medications through airport security, as long as you follow the proper procedures. Pills, solid formulations, liquids, gels, and aerosols are all allowed when subjected to the proper screening. Diabetic-related supplies, equipment, and medications (including unlimited numbers of unused syringes, used syringes with a sharps container, lancets, alcohol swabs, etc.) are allowed through checkpoints after screening. Inform TSA officers of medications and medical supplies and separate them from belongings before screening. Medications do not need to be in the one-quart zip-lock bag, but must be declared to a TSA official. Declaring an item can be done verbally, written, or by the person’s family member, guardian, or caregiver. TSA can inspect medications instead of running them through the X-ray machine (the X-ray machine will not damage medications or supplies). Additionally, you should remember to make sure you have an updated list of medications and medical conditions in your carry-on.
Are there limits on the amount of medication I can bring?
There is no limit on the quantities of pills and solid formulations that are allowed through airport security. Liquids, gels, and aerosols (including eye drops, saline solutions, over-the-counter products, etc.) are allowed in any reasonable amount, but items in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces (100 mL) will receive additional screening and must be declared to the Transportation Security Officer.
Do medications need to be in prescription bottles?
While it is not required that you keep your medications in their prescription bottles, it is strongly recommended, as it tends to improve ease of screening. Generally, it is always best to leave all medications in their original containers, with the prescription labels still attached, so that the Transportation Security Officer can easily complete the screening process.
Are there different rules when traveling internationally?
While the screening process will be the same before your flight regardless of your destination, the country you are visiting may have different rules regarding medications. If you are traveling internationally, it is recommended to check with the United States Embassy in that country, so that they can assist you.
How can I find more information?
If you have further questions about bringing your compounded medications through airport security, you can reach out to the airline you are flying with, the airport you are departing from, or TSA directly.
We hope that this information has been helpful as you prepare to bring your compounded medications through airport security. And, if you need assistance with finding the right compounded medications for your health needs, you can find out more about the compounding services we offer at our pharmacy right here!
