Caitlyn O. Says:
Can I get my regular prescription medication in Ireland?
IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says:
Hi Caitlyn,
Doctors in Ireland may prescribe you an unfamiliar brand of drug/medication, but all pharmaceuticals are subject to rigorous EU testing before they are allowed to be sold.
If you have a specific medication you use regularly, bring it along to your local GP or pharmacist, who will probably be able to identify an equivalent local brand.
Travelers already on medication should ensure that they bring sufficient quantities of it to last for the duration of the trip. As well as a copy of the prescription, you should also have a letter from your U.S. physician stating that the medication is necessary. This will avoid any potential problems if you’re searched by U.S. or Irish customs officials.
Should you need more supplies, you should first check with the local pharmacist whether the medication is available here under a European brand name. If it is, you should then see a general practitioner who can prescribe it on your behalf.
If the medication is not available in Ireland, your U.S. physician can forward you a prescription, together with a letter stating that you require this drug to treat an illness (specified), and that it’s for your sole use. The U.S physician or pharmacist can then mail you the drugs.
You should keep the doctor’s letter and prescription, just in case it needs to be presented to local customs officials.
Read more about healthcare in Ireland here.
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