Taking medication on holiday

For more information, visit the Parkinson’s UK website (last updated November 2022).

Adjusting your medication routine while on holiday

If you’re going abroad, you may need to change your medication regime – especially if you’re travelling across time zones.

As everyone’s medication regime is different, it’s very important you speak to your GP, specialist, or Parkinson’s nurse before you go. They’ll be able to help you work out the best way to take your medication while you’re travelling and after you reach your destination.

Travelling by air

If you are flying, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids during your flight, so you don’t become dehydrated. This is particularly important if you have low blood pressure (postural hypotension). If the cabin crew know you have Parkinson’s, they can make sure to offer you drinks throughout the flight.

Travelling with medication

Always carry your medication in the original packaging and keep it in your hand luggage, along with the medical certificate or letter from your doctor or nurse.

Remember that some medications are ‘sun sensitive’ and may need special storage facilities. Check with your GP or Parkinson’s nurse about this if you are unsure.

Restrictions and contingency planning

You may need to check with the embassy or High Commission of the country you’re visiting to see if they have any restrictions on taking your medication into the country. Some medication may contain ingredients that are illegal where you’re travelling to.

Also, just in case you lose your medication, check if you can get your specific drugs in the country you’re travelling to. Drugs may have different names in different countries, so it’s good to know what they’re called where you’re going. The drug company should be able to advise you on this.

Ask your GP to give you a prescription for extra medication to cover more than the length of your trip. For example, if you’re going away for two weeks, take four weeks’ medication just in case your travel plans are disrupted.

Deep brain stimulation

Certain metal detectors or scanners may affect electronic devices such as your pulse generator for deep brain stimulation, so it’s always advisable to discuss this with your specialist or Parkinson’s nurse before travelling.

If you have had deep brain stimulation and have a rechargeable unit implanted, make sure it is fully charged and working well. You should take your recharging unit with you if you are going away for more than a few days.