Taking Medication to Scandinavia

Independent Housing

It is your responsibility to ensure that all medication you are importing is legal and does not contain euphoriants and/or doping substances.

The U.S. Department of State provides the following basic advice regarding traveling abroad with medication:

  • Assure that your medication is legal to carry into the country
  • Bring medication in your carry-on luggage; it should be in its original container and be accompanied by a doctor’s note listing the medication and why you are taking it

Note: Over-the-counter (OTC) cold medicines typically found in the U.S. are not available in Scandinavia. DIS recommends that you bring a limited supply of OTC medication for your use abroad.

Meet with Your Doctor Before Traveling Abroad

DIS recommends that you talk to your doctor about your plans to travel abroad well in advance. As part of this conversation, ask your doctor if they have any concerns with you receiving enough of your prescription medication for the duration of your time abroad.

If your insurance only allows a limited amount of prescription at a time and this isn’t enough for your term abroad, call your insurance company and ask for an exception. A copy of your acceptance from DIS will often assist your appeal for additional coverage.

Some students have been unable to receive an exception and have had to pay out of pocket for the additional month(s). If this is your situation, ask if you can later file for reimbursement from the insurance company.

Note: Birth control is a legal substance in Scandinavia; talk with your doctor about bringing enough birth control for the entire term.

Read about planning for your health abroad here

Questions?

Contact the DIS North American Office by calling 800-247-3477 or emailing HealthAccommodation@DISabroad.org.