This archive report was first published on 31 August 2019.
As you prepare for your next flight, it's essential to pack your medications correctly to ensure their safety and effectiveness during travel.
According to Ivy Nelly, a pharmacist, medications should be stored at room temperature in a dry place, away from heat, humidity, and light, unless specified otherwise.
For diabetics, carrying insulin in a container with cotton wool soaked with methylated spirit can be a lifesaver. This trick allows the insulin to remain effective for up to eight hours.
Some medications, like Levothyroxine for thyroid patients, are heat-sensitive and may lose their effectiveness if exposed to high temperatures.
It's crucial to carry a letter from a doctor for extra insulin in case you need to replace it during your trip.
Injectable needles are also allowed with a doctor's letter, providing peace of mind for travelers with medical needs.
Insulin and tablets should be carried in hand luggage to avoid exposure to sub-zero temperatures in checked baggage.
For medications that require refrigeration, speak to the cabin crew, or consider packing them in an insulated bag with a freezer pack for long flights.
When traveling in warm or sunny weather, avoid leaving medication in a parked car, as it can become hot and affect its potency.
