Answered3 months ago
What are the restrictions for bringing escitalopram to Thailand?
Hi everyone, this is not directly visa related, but heard that Thailand has some specific restrictions on medications.
I plan on backpacking around Southeast Asia staying in each country as a tourist for as long as my brazilian passport allows me to.
I have to take 20mg of escitalopram daily and I was planning to take the total amount I would need for around 6-8 months with me. Would there be restrictions on Thailand borders? Anyone has had any experiences with that?
I plan on backpacking around Southeast Asia staying in each country as a tourist for as long as my brazilian passport allows me to.
I have to take 20mg of escitalopram daily and I was planning to take the total amount I would need for around 6-8 months with me. Would there be restrictions on Thailand borders? Anyone has had any experiences with that?
Answer summary
The discussion revolves around bringing escitalopram (an antidepressant) into Thailand while backpacking. While many community members have not faced issues entering the country with their medications, there are mixed opinions on the necessity of documentation like a doctor's letter or a prescription. Some emphasize that escitalopram is available over the counter in Thailand, so obtaining it locally might be an option. However, caution is advised as legality and requirements can differ, and checking official government sources for accurate information is recommended.
26 repliesnewest first
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John ********
Never had a problem in 10 years, but just in case carry a doctors letter
Hans-Victor *****
Don't rely on replies like: "I never had any problems" etc. This medication is considered as narcotic and not only in Thailand!!! The best way is to get a declaration in English from your doctor. There is a special form for this. Take care for the right documents for the various countries you want to visit. Check those countries official web sites. Be well prepared concerning narcotic medication
In order to avoid BIG troubles.
In order to avoid BIG troubles.
Greg ***********
Hans-Victor Noy you are full of rubbish. Escitalopram (commonly known by the brand name Lexapro) is not a narcotic drug. It is a prescription antidepressant that belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). He can take it to Thailand without having to declare it or without the need of a prescription. Actually, you can buy Escitalpram over the counter of a Thai pharmacy
Helena ********************
OPThank you so much! 🙏
Greg ***********
Helena Furquim Junqueira don't believe this rubbish Hans-Victor Noy is spreading
Helena ********************
OPThank you all for your advice 🙏🏼
Ivan *********
I have good experiences with pharmacy,s in Thailand ( They are helpful /knowledgeable and think most of them speak excellent English.)
Ralph *******
Legally, you can bring a 30 day supply only. That medicine is available in Thailand so you can buy it there. Take your prescription or a letter from your doctor so that you can (hopefully) buy it in a pharmacy.
Alternatively, take a chance, as many do, and take the full amount with you.
Alternatively, take a chance, as many do, and take the full amount with you.
Liza ********
please don't rely on information here - if you get incorrect or incomplete information you will bear the consequences - so - start by googling and then checking the various Thai government sites - if you still have a question ask the thai consulate/embassy in your country....
Hans-Victor *****
Liza Murphy the right answer
Colin *******
Is widely available under the Lexapro brand and would probably be much cheaper here.
Bruce ********
Available over the counter in most pharmacies
Helena ********************
OPBruce Taylor do you think I can buy it with a Brazilian prescription?
Bruce ********
Helena Furquim Junqueira you do not need a prescription , just walk into any pharmacy and ask for it ....
Ant ***********
As long as it’s labeled from a pharmacy & in date
All fine
All fine
Lynnette *******
Ant W Tailor unless it's one that requires a permit.
Roger *******
i would also carry a copy of your medical script to show that its your medication too.
Dave *******
************************************************************************
%20for%20Travelers%20who%20travel%20into%20Thailand_*****
024.pdfHelena ********************
OPDave Allen Thank you, I'll take a look on it!
Graeme *******
If in doubt go to the permit to travel th website, all drugs listed and what to do to bring in to country, when Ibought my medication in slso had a prescription from NZ.
Helena ********************
OPThank you!
Danny *******
We've been bringing in prescription meds for 16 years and not once been questioned on entry.
Helena ********************
OPGood to know! But since my medication consists on antidepressant, that's why I'm not sure...
Danny *******
Some of ours were antidepressants.
Lynnette *******
Helena Furquim Junqueira please check on govt website if yours needs a permit. Quoting someone else's experience won't help if your medication requires a permit, get stopped and have no permit.
Helena ********************
OPDanny Dukes thank you for specifying! 🙏
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