Sunday, November 9, 2008

Traveling with Medications

Keeping a medication schedule is hard enough when you have to do it at home but during travel, it’s an absolute nightmare. If you are like most people, you probably have had to travel at least once while on medication and you know how difficult it can be. Aside from remembering your travel itinerary, you also have to squeeze in your medications. If you need to take several medications at different points during the day, here are some tips that can help you manage your medication schedule easier:

1.Make a medication calendar.

A medication calendar is really helpful especially if you will be away from home for a week or so. Just print out or make a personal calendar inclusive of your travel dates. Aside from your daily agenda, also jot down your medication schedules on the calendar. This way, instead of a being a hassle, your medications become a part of your daily schedule. If you find the task of writing or penciling in your medication routine into your daily itinerary, invest in pillboxes and label each with a date corresponding to your travel schedule.

2.Get prescription refills before setting out.

Visit your local pharmacy or your doctor to get a refill of your prescription medications prior to traveling. This way, you prevent missing out on your medications just because the amount you brought with you isn’t enough. This is especially important if you are using a medication that is not common or popular. If this is not possible, obtain a duplicate prescription from your doctor so you can get your medications from another place. One thing that might prove to be useful during traveling is a note from your doctor explaining why you need certain medications. This is especially true if you need or use medications such as strong narcotics or antidepressants which can raise questions in airports.

3.Make a list of your medications and what are they for.

While uncommon, there have been cases of overdoses and others that are related to medicating while on the road. Just to be sure, make a list of all medications you are using and their purposes. Make several copies and put these in your bag, your glove compartment, and your hotel end table. This way, it’ll be easy for medical personnel to help you even if you are indisposed. They can easily give you an antidote or the necessary first aid to counteract the effects of the medication you took in excess.

4.Bring an extra set of medications.

Bring extra medication just in case. If you are traveling for three days, for example, you may want to bring six days of medication. Keep your extra medication in a separate bag, if possible. This way, if one bag does get lost, you will have back-up medication. Keeping medications in separate bags can also help you prevent intake mistakes. Keeping them separate keeps you from making the mistake of taking something in excess. In addition, if you happen to drop a pill or lose one, you won't be a pill short during your travels.

Following the tips listed above can help save you from the stress and anxiety of finding yourself short of the necessary medications while you are away from home. Being prepared can also save you from impractical expenses which you will undoubtedly incur in case you find yourself sick with no cost-effective medical solution available.


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Kristine Anne Gonzaga is a content writer and researcher who specializes in health topics and health-related issues. She delights in finding tips and ideas on simple and practical healthcare and sharing them through her writing.

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