Risks when importing medicines

Drug is not suitable as a holiday souvenir

07/16/2014

Medicines can often be purchased much cheaper abroad than in Germany. However, strict customs regulations apply, which travelers should urgently inform about before importing the drug. In addition, there is the increased risk of counterfeiting of medicines, so that, according to the announcement of the Federal Association of German Pharmacist Associations (ABDA), it is generally not advisable to purchase medicines abroad.

„Medicines are not holiday souvenirs“, emphasized the Vice President of the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists, Thomas Benkert. „.Firstly, abroad there is an increased risk of unknowingly buying a counterfeit medicine. Second, strict customs regulations apply to the importation of medicines“, the expert continues. Thus, the supposed bargain can not only be a health risk, but possibly also bring problems with the judiciary.

Up to ten percent of the drugs are counterfeit
According to the ABDA, the risk of purchasing counterfeit medicines should not be underestimated, as the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that eight to ten percent of all medicines are counterfeit. The risk of counterfeit medicines in poorer countries is particularly high. In particular at weekly markets or at hawkers the counterfeit drugs would be offered in many cases, so the message of the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists. Since the counterfeit drugs often declare a different active ingredient than the specified active ingredient in a different concentration or no active ingredient, the ingestion can have dramatic consequences for the patient. „Even if a drug is cheaper abroad: Bargain hunting can be life-threatening“, emphasized Thomas Benkert.

Observe customs regulations
In addition, counterfeit medicines as well as doping agents should generally not be introduced. In addition, travelers on entering the EU are only allowed to carry quantities intended for personal use. „As a rule of thumb, a pack or the need for a maximum of three months per drug apply“, the ABDA continues to report. The bringing of medicines from abroad for other persons or for commercial purposes is generally not permitted. In addition, some drugs traded freely abroad in this country may fall under the pharmaceutical law. According to the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists, this applies, for example, to „Nutritional supplements, high-dose vitamin supplements or pure herbal remedies.“The funds will be confiscated by customs and travelers may face a penalty.

Provide for the holiday
Patients who are dependent on their medicines while on holiday, the Federal Chamber of Pharmacists urgently recommend to take enough large amounts or to have them prescribed in advance by the doctor. However, should be considered when traveling by air, „that liquids, creams or sprays may only be brought on board in limited quantities.“ To avoid complications, the ABDA advises further „for highly effective painkillers and other narcotics a medical certificate“ carry. (Fp)