You can carry these items on. They are APPROVED for carry-on by the TSA after they have been screened:
- All prescription and over-the-counter medications, including all liquids, gels, pills and all other types of medications for passengers with disabilities or medical conditions.
- Items used to augment the body for medical or cosmetic reasons such as mastectomy products, prosthetic breasts, bras or shells containing gels, saline solution, or other liquids; and
- Gels or frozen liquids needed to cool disability or medically related items used by persons with disabilities or medical conditions.
Familiarize yourself with items that need special handling.
- Carry-on liquids: All liquids must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: 3.4-oz (100ml) bottle or less packed in a one-quart clear plastic zip-top bag, and one bag per passenger. Any gels or liquids more than 3 oz and not in the specified plastic bag must be declared at the security checkpoint for further inspection.
- X-ray screening: Medication and related supplies are usually X-rayed. If you want a visual inspection instead, ask the security officers before the screening process begins. Have your medication and associated supplies separated from your other property in a separate pouch/bag when you approach the security officer at the walk-through metal detector.
- Preventing contamination or damage: To protect your medication, associated supplies or fragile medical materials, the TSA recommends you handle and repack your own belongings for inspection. Any material that can't be visually inspected will be X-rayed. If you refuse, you will not be allowed to bring your medications and related supplies through the security checkpoint.
- The TSA recommends, but does not require, labeling medication.
Learn the international guidelines. The U.S. Department of State recommends the following regarding traveling with prescription drugs:
- Letter from doctor: A traveler going abroad with a pre-existing medical problem should carry a letter from the attending physician, describing the medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic names of prescribed drugs.
- Original containers: Any medications being carried overseas should be left in their original containers and be clearly labeled.
- Illegal abroad? Travelers should check with the foreign embassy of the country they are visiting to make sure any required medications are not considered to be illegal narcotics.
- Backup supply: Pack medicines and extra eyeglasses in your hand luggage so they will be available in case your checked luggage is lost. To be extra secure, pack a backup supply of medicines and an additional pair of eyeglasses in your checked luggage.
- Allergies: If you have allergies, reactions to certain medications, foods, or insect bites, or other unique medical problems, consider wearing a "medical alert" bracelet. You may also wish to carry a letter from your physician explaining required treatment should you become ill.
- Bring enough medication to tide you over in case your luggage gets lost. No one wants to have to delay their vacation to find a drugstore because their medicine is in their checked baggage on its way to Barbados.
- Even though not required by the TSA, it's a good idea to keep the medicine in its original drugstore bottle with the drug name, dosage and prescribing doctor on the label to avoid any question about the legality of prescription drugs, especially controlled substances.
