ESTAESTA GuideTravel authorisation for the USA

ESTA INFORMATION

Bringing Medicines into the USA: What You Need to Know

The basic rule: carry a prescription or a doctor's letter in English, keep medicines in their original packaging and bring no more than a 90-day supply. Additional rules apply to controlled substances, and medical cannabis is prohibited. If in doubt, declare it at customs.

Prescription, original packaging, quantity

If you bring prescription or over-the-counter medicines, you must comply with the rules of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). CBP advises visitors to carry:

  • A valid prescription or doctor's letter — in English
  • The medicine in its original packaging with the doctor's instructions
  • If it is not in its original packaging: a copy of the prescription or a doctor's letter explaining your condition and your need for the medicine
  • Only the amount needed for your personal use during your stay — rule of thumb: no more than a 90-day supply
Counterfeit medicines:the FDA prohibits the import of counterfeit or fraudulent medicines and medical devices — whether by post or in your luggage.

Controlled substances: original container and customs declaration

If a medicine is classed as a controlled substance under US law (for example some strong painkillers or ADHD medicines), the rules of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) also apply. Under 21 CFR 1301.26, you may import a Schedule II to V medicine prescribed to you personally only if:

  • it is in the original container in which it was dispensed to you, and
  • you declare it to the customs officer — stating that it is for your personal use, and giving the trade or chemical name and its schedule

To see whether an active ingredient is a controlled substance in the USA, check the DEA scheduling list (linked in the sources below).

Cannabis, CBD and syringes

Medical cannabis is prohibited — even with a prescription. According to CBP, crossing the border with medical cannabis is not permitted even with a valid prescription, and may result in fines, arrest or both. More on this under Smoking, alcohol & cannabis.
  • CBD: CBP has no official rule on CBD for travellers. We therefore advise against bringing CBD products
  • Syringes and needles: drug paraphernalia may not be imported — unless prescribed for a genuine medical condition such as diabetes

If in doubt, declare it — and remember the TSA rule

CBP advises declaring all items to the officer on arrival. If a declared item is prohibited, in many cases it can simply be abandoned without further consequences.

Liquid medicines over 100 ml are allowed through security in reasonable quantities, but must be declared to the TSA officer — see TSA liquids rule.

Related information

USA travel guide

All the practical topics at a glance

US customs

Cash, food and declarations

TSA liquids rule

100 ml, the bag and exceptions

Sources and currency

Last checked: 12 October 2026. This website is an independent information service and is not an official website of the US Government.