Portugal medication rule that could leave travellers running out

Holidaymakers planning trips to Portugal this summer are being urged to verify their medication arrangements, as the nation's stringent regulations could potentially disrupt their plans. The Foreign Office is highlighting essential guidance for Britons regarding what steps to take should prescription medicines run out while overseas, proper packing procedures to ensure smooth airport security checks, and measures to protect medication efficacy in hot weather.

There are also rules around which drugs will be dispensed in the country which could mean accessing new supplies is difficult. The FCDO cautioned: "The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. There are strict rules around dispensing certain medicines in Portugal, including antibiotics."

The Office’s Travel Health Pro website advises travellers to prepare for their trip by:

• Getting appropriate travel health insurance
• Getting enough medication to last the entire trip, with some spare in case of delays or lost luggage
• Checking the medication they take is permitted in the countries they’re visiting
• Checking airline regulations, particularly around liquid medication
• Keep medication in the original pharmacy packaging
• Arrange storage requirements if necessary, for example with medications that need to be cooled
• Get a copy of your prescriptions and carry this with you during travel
• Get a letter from your prescriber explaining the medicines and the generic names for each one which can be helpful for getting replacements or repeats abroad

Should you need a repeat prescription while overseas, the Foreign Office advises visiting the nearest health centre or hospital A&E department, where assistance may be available. However, you might need to pay for your medication even if you're normally exempt from charges in the UK.

For destinations such as Portugal, holidaymakers should take note of the time difference as it may affect when medication needs to be taken if following a strict dosage schedule. Furthermore, the warmer climate in this popular summer spot can impact certain medicines.

Some medications, including diuretics, blood pressure drugs and antidepressants, affect how your body manages heat and can increase the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Medical equipment can also be affected by the heat and humidity more prevalent in Portugal than in the UK, such as test strips, inhalers, hormone patches and epipens.

Holidaymakers in Portugal requiring over the counter medication rather than prescription items should be able to obtain these at health stores in supermarkets or shopping centres. Portugal's Pharmacy Association website can help locate the nearest options close to your holiday location.