If you need medication for a long-term health condition, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, you may be able to get an extra supply of medication to cover your time away.
You'll need to obtain a prescription from your GP, who will consider factors such as:
- the type of medication you're taking
- restrictions on specific medicines in the country you're visiting
Your GP will take into account whether you're taking a medicine that requires you to have regular monitoring or blood tests.
You should arrange to see your GP several weeks before you go away on holiday to discuss all of this.
Will my GP prescribe medication in case I'm ill when I'm away?
Talk to your GP about this. They will only give you an NHS prescription if they think you need the medication. They don't have to give you an NHS prescription just because you think you should have the medication.
Some GPs will provide private prescriptions, which are not free, if they agree that you should have medication to hand in case you're ill while you’re away.
Check what medication you can take
Before you travel, find out if there are any restrictions on taking your medicine in and out of:
- the UK
- the country you're visiting
Some medicines available over the counter in the UK may be strictly regulated (controlled) in other countries.
For more information, see Can I take my medicine abroad? and What is a controlled medicine (drug)?
Further information:
Your health, your choices