11 Medication Travel Tips from an Amber Specialty Pharmacy Nurse

• July 31, 2017
• Amber Specialty Pharmacy
• Health Tips

Summer is in full swing and many of us are trying to squeeze in a quick getaway before fall arrives. We all deserve a break from the day to day but when your routine changes, it can make managing your medication regimen tough.

It’s easy to miss doses, incorrectly store medications or take medications at the wrong time while traveling. Before you hit the road, take some time to think about how you can stay on schedule.

Try these adherence travel tips so you can feel your best and enjoy your getaway.

• Make sure you have enough medication to last your entire trip, plus a little extra in case you get delayed. If you aren’t due for a refill yet, many insurance companies allow for vacation overrides that allow you to order a refill early. Amber Specialty Pharmacy is happy to help. Please call before your vacation and allow time to receive your medication prior to your departure.
• Keep all of your medications together in a sealed baggie in your carry-on luggage. Never pack your medication in checked luggage. Bags can get lost and you will want to have your medication on hand.
• Medications should be kept in original containers with your name, the doctor’s name and the prescription printed on the bottle.
• If your medication needs to stay cold, many drug manufacturers have programs that provide you with a small cooler to use while traveling. They will also give you medication-specific travel tips.
• Use a daily pill box, a reminder on your cellphone or a mobile app to help you remember to take your medication. You can also ask a traveling companion to remind you.
• If you’re traveling across time zones, talk to your pharmacist about how to adjust your medication schedule to fit the new time zone.
• Amber Specialty Pharmacy ships to all 50 states. If you forget your medication or leave town suddenly, we may be able to send a refill to your destination.
• If you are flying, read the Disabilities and Medical Conditions page of the Transportation Security Administration website before leaving.
• Take a list of all of your medications with you. Include contact phone numbers for your healthcare providers just in case you need to reach them.
• In case of emergency, research the location of the nearest medical facility at your destination.
• Talk to your doctor to see if there are any extra precautions you should take while traveling.

Your medication regimen shouldn’t keep you from enjoying your vacation. By taking the time to prepare before your trip, your travels can be safe, fun and worry free.

Don’t forget to contact Amber Specialty Pharmacy before you leave town to order any refills. Our expert staff is happy to answer any questions you have about traveling with your medications.