Taking stimulants abroad

Stimulants (methylphenidate, MPH and amfetamine medication, AMP) are legal narcotics (BtM) in Germany (along with many other substances).¹ This article deals with the regulations for importing these stimulants from Germany and for possession in other countries.
A further description can be found at the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) at Travel with narcotics and in the database of the International Narcotics Control Board.

The information collected here is by no means complete and should only be used as a starting point for further research.
No guarantee for correctness or up-to-dateness. Rules are subject to change at any time.

• 1. Basic recommendations for traveling with stimulants, BtM and cannabinoids
• 2. Carrying stimulants when traveling to countries in the Schengen Agreement
• 3. Travel to countries outside the Schengen Agreement
  • Egypt
  • Azerbaijan
  • Australia
  • Belarus
  • Chile
  • Georgia
  • Great Britain
  • Japan
  • Canada
  • Colombia
  • Malaysia
  • Maldives
  • Monaco
  • Montenegro
  • Nepal
  • Philippines
  • Thailand
  • Trinidad and Tobago
  • Turkey
  • Ukraine
  • USA
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE)
  • Cyprus
• 4. Driving under medication
  • 4.1. Czech Republic: total ban on stimulants while driving
  • 4.2. Estonia: Total ban on stimulants while driving
  • 4.3. Poland: total ban on stimulants while driving
  • 4.4. Slovenia: Total ban on stimulants while driving
  • 4.5. Slovakia: Total ban on stimulants while driving
• 5. Drug tests and ADHD medication

1. Basic recommendations for traveling with stimulants, BtM and cannabinoids¶

It is strongly recommended to consult the database of the International Narcotics Control Board as a source of data.
In addition, recommendations from the respective travel countries should be taken into account, even if these are only additional recommendations for action, as they can clarify current legal practice and possible interpretation disputes. The law is what a court says it is. Your own case may also end with a judgment that puts an end to previous legal practice and introduces new case law. However, this already applies to the case decided for the first time. Law has about as much to do with justice as the latest Golf has to do with the perfect car. A perfect car consumes no energy, never breaks down and is infinitely fast: it is an ideal, not a reality. Law, on the other hand, like cars, is made by people.

The technology of baggage scanners, e.g. at airports, has evolved. Modern scanners scan the contents of closed suitcases and hand luggage and can detect even the smallest amounts of amfetamine (e.g. in medicines).

It is strongly discouraged to “repackage” narcotic drugs in neutral packaging. This can give rise to the suspicion of deliberate concealment, which raises an initial suspicion of criminal activity.

Depending on the country, travelers may already be asked questions at passport control/entry interview (e.g. in the USA). As the interview takes place before baggage claim, both the medication and the documentation should be in your hand luggage.

It is generally advisable to ask the respective airline(s) for specific information.
Lufthansa recommends that you Carrying medication in hand luggage.

It is not known whether you also have to go to customs after being informed at the entry interview.

For transit journeys, the regulations of the country of departure, the transit country or countries and the destination country must be observed, as it may be necessary to check out and check in again during a transit (stopover).

2. Carrying stimulants when traveling to countries in the Schengen Agreement¶

When traveling to EU countries that are members of the Schengen Agreement, narcotics that have been acquired on the basis of a medical prescription may be imported and exported as travel requirements in the quantity required for the duration of the trip.
For this purpose, a certificate completed by a doctor for the carrying of narcotics in the context of medical treatment in accordance with Article 75 of the Schengen Implementation Agreement Must be carried. Download the Schengen certificate.
The certificate must be certified by the state health authority responsible in the respective federal state.
An identity card or passport must be presented for certification and a fee must be paid (e.g. EUR 5 in Berlin, EUR 35 elsewhere).
The certificate is valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

In practice, we are not aware of any reports that the lack of a health authority certificate has caused problems in the Schengen area.
But if things go wrong, it can be expensive (missed connecting flight/train, getting stuck at some airport somewhere in the world, hotel, new flight, worst case scenario, criminal proceedings… Eastern Europe in particular is not really friendly to amfetamine medication due to the drug problem with crystal meth there).

Only people with ADHD are permitted to take them with them, not third parties.
Medication and certificate should be carried together in hand luggage when traveling by air.

Download the List of the responsible state health authorities in the German federal states.
Tool of the RKI for Search for health authorities in Germany by zip code.

Countries in the Schengen Agreement:

• Belgium
• Bulgaria (since March 2024, partial application)
• Denmark
• Germany
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Greece
• Iceland
• Italy
• Croatia (since 01.01.2023)
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Austria
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania (since March 2024, partial application)
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Czech Republic, Czech Republic (formerly: Czechoslovakia)
• Hungary

The following are not (or no longer) members of the Schengen Agreement

• Ireland
• Cyprus
• England
• Scotland

No notarized certificate is required for a country of the Schengen Agreement to carry stimulants or BtM that have been lawfully acquired within that country.

Within a country, however, it is advisable (especially for drivers) to carry a doctor’s confirmation that stimulants are prescribed. The ADHD ID card from adhspedia can be helpful. However, when driving in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Estonia and Slovenia (and possibly other countries), such an ID card could pose a risk (see below).

3. Travel to countries outside the Schengen Agreement¶

The following applies to the transportation of stimulants to countries outside the Schengen Agreement:
The regulations of all transit and travel countries must be observed. This applies in any case when traveling by car / bus / train. We do not know whether the regulations of the countries of transfer airports must also be observed when flying.

• Contact the relevant country (embassy)
  • Federal Foreign Office: Representations of other countries in Germany
• If import and possession are permitted
  • obtain a multilingual certificate from the doctor
    • with information on
      • active ingredients to be imported and carried
      • Single and daily doses
      • Duration of the trip
    • Carriage of narcotics for max. 30 days²
  • have this certificate notarized by the health authority of the respective federal state
  • carry a notarized certificate with you during the entire trip
• If import or possession is not permitted
  • Prescription possible on site?
  • If no prescription is possible on site:
    • Obtain approval from the Federal Opium Agency
    • Attention; lengthy procedure!

A list of the requirements can be found at Country-specific entry requirements, International Narcotics Control Board.
Many countries have not yet communicated their requirements there.
The requirements listed there should be followed as a matter of priority. Our other instructions here may be incorrect or out of date.

Muslim countries in particular have draconian penalties for drug possession.³
It is not safe to take stimulants to Arab countries without careful preparation, even though they are medicines. You should inform yourself carefully about this.

Egypt¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Egypt in Germany, as of 26.10.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

Prescription medication must be accompanied by a certificate from the attending doctor or hospital with the following specifications:

• Copy in English language
• Stamp of the doctor or hospital
• Patient details:
  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Passport number/ID card number
• Medication details
  • Name of the drug
  • Quantity of medication carried
• Duration and timing of the trip
• Confirmation of medical necessity

There are also ready-made multilingual forms on various websites, which are also accepted.
Certificate from the health authority required for

• Drugs that fall under the Narcotics Act
• Cannabis medication
• Opiate-containing medications

A certification from the consulate is not necessary if you only take the amount required for your own needs on vacation.

Medication should always be carried in hand luggage when traveling to Egypt together with the corresponding certificate.
It is not necessary to present the medication when leaving or entering the country without being asked to do so.

Azerbaijan¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany, as of 25.10.2023, it is most likely possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form ** . This statement appears to be incorrect.

In post-Soviet states (including Azerbaijan), stimulants for ADHD are often unauthorized or heavily regulated. As they are on national psychotropic lists, importing them without authorization can be considered an illegal import of psychotropic substances.

The embassy had no information about the transportation of amfetamine medication. It recommended that the “opinion” of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan be taken into account.
Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the Control of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Precursors

In the Instructions for travelers contains the information that medicines for personal use are generally permitted and a general ban on taking narcotics with you.

The transportation of amfetamine and levoamfetamine is not permitted: https://www.advantour.com/img/azarbaijan/file/prohibited_medicines.pdf
Dextroamfetamine is not explicitly mentioned, but is (like levoamfetamine) only an isomer of amfetamine, which is why it is subject to the ban.
At the same time, the pre-bid also affects precursors such as lisdexamfetamine.
It is also forbidden to take methylphenidate (called methylfenidate in the list) with you.
The same list contains the controlled substances. Amfetamine and methylphenidate are not listed among these, but are included in the prohibited active ingredients section.

Australia¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Australia in Germany, as of 23.11.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form. Registration on site is also required.

Further information can be found at https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/can-you-bring-it-in/categories/medicines-and-substances

Belarus¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Belarus in Germany, as of 26.10.2023, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form. The request must be made in Russian and the required certificates must be submitted.

List of drugs and psychotropic substances subject to special import regulations (in Russian)
Rules for the import of the drugs and psychotropic substances on the above list (in Russian)
.
The medical prescription or the doctor’s certificate (confirmed by the competent German health authorities) or the certificate of the competent authorities of the country of destination must be presented upon import, including a certified translation into Belarusian or Russian.
The limitation of the duration or dose is

• 7 days for drugs
• 90 single doses for psychotropic substances.

For detailed information, we recommend contacting the Belarusian Ministry of Health:
Head of Department of Pharmaceutical Inspections and Medicine Provision, Ministry of Health,
Miasnikova str. 39, 220048 Minsk, Belarus,
Tel: 375 17 222 7081
Tel: 375 17 200 7104
Fax: 375 17 222 6297
Fax: 375 17 200 6390
E-mail: lreutskaya@belcmt.by
E-mail: gpyshnik@belcmt.by

Chile¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Chile in Germany, as of 05.09.2023, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.
Travelers who are carrying medication containing controlled substances when entering Chile can find information in English under the link: https://www.incb.org/documents/Travellers/files/CHI_ENG_2018.pdf

Travelers may carry their medication for personal use, provided that they

• have a medical certificate
• which certifies the use of these medicines and the respective quantity carried.

If the quantity of medication involves the risk of confiscation upon entry, a corresponding authorization can be obtained in advance with sufficient advance notice via the “Electronic System for the Provisional Importation and Classification of Goods” (Sistema Electrónico Importación Provisional y Clasificación de Mercancias“ SIPRO) at https://up.ispch.gob.cl/ (only in Spanish with a personal account)
The contact is the Subdepartment for Trade Control, Foreign, Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs (Subdepartamento Control Comercio Exterior, Estupefacientes y Psicotrópicos) in the Department of the National Agency for Medicines (ANAMED) of the Chilean Institute of Public Health (Instituto de Salud Pública ISP). The respective contacts can be found under the above link on the Chilean country page of the INCB.

Georgia¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Germany, as of 20.11.2023, it is most likely possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form **

In post-Soviet states (including Azerbaijan), stimulants for ADHD are often not approved or are heavily regulated.

The embassy warned that increased caution is required when importing narcotic or psychotropic substances for personal medical care in order to avoid a possible criminal offense under Georgian law. Before entering the country, it is strongly recommended to contact the relevant Georgian authorities to ensure that the requirements and any necessary documents for legal import are met.

A PDF with the law and lists I, II, III and IV (of unknown date) names amfetamine, dextroamfetamine, levoamfetamine, methylphenidate, THC and dronabinol as Schedule II active ingredients.
List II contains narcotics with restricted circulation: narcotics with high medical and social risk that are approved for medical purposes in Georgia, their pharmaceutical forms and other substances that are equivalent to them in terms of medical and social risk and whose circulation is restricted in Georgia.
Accordingly, the active ingredients mentioned appear to be subject to the conditions of the Revenue Service of the Georgian Ministry of Finance:, there for Schedule II controlled substances.

Competent authority in Georgia.

Great Britain¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the embassy of Great Britain in Germany, as of 25.07.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

If you are staying in the UK for three months or less, with stocks of prescription medicines whose ingredients are Schedule 2-5 controlled drugs, for three months or less, you should carry an accompanying letter from the doctor who prescribed the medicine. You may be asked for this when you enter the country.
The letter should contain the following information:

• Name of the patient
• Address of the patient
• Date of birth of the patient
• Start and end of the trip
• List of medication carried (including dosage and total quantity)

A list of the ingredients of drugs that can be imported under these conditions (“Schedule 2-5 controlled drugs”) can be found at https://www.gov.uk/travelling-controlled-drugs.
Currently (March 2026), the list includes amfetamine. Lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate, tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta-THC), but not bupropion.
Additional information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/drugs-licensing find

Japan¶

Status: 27.09.2024

Methylphenidate may be imported without prior notification or accompanying documents for personal use for up to 30 days. If more than 30 days are required, this must be reported to the e-mail address provided. APPLICATION GUIDANCE, Narcotics Control Department: Psychotropics
Modafinil may also be imported in this way. List of active ingredients that can be imported in this way.

The FAQ at the bottom of the page explains that lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is considered a raw material for stimulants and is imported with a corresponding certificate. The procedure and the required documents are explained under APPLICATION GUIDANCE, Narcotics Control Department: Psychotropics described.
On the linked List of active ingredients that can be introduced in this way however, lisdexamfetamine is not listed.
We therefore recommend that you contact us at the e-mail address provided.

Adderall may not be imported into Japan at all.
Medicinal cannabis may also not be imported. However, dronabinol, a synthetically produced cannabinoid, may be imported as a narcotic with the requirements described above.

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Japan in Germany, as of 09.11.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form. There are further requirements. There are also provisions for export. Information from the embassy:

General medication:
General information on bringing medicines to Japan from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare
Link to the online registration of medicines (“Create Account”)

Apart from the normal medicine cabinet (cold spray, headache tablets, etc.), prescription medication must be registered, but only for stays of more than one month. Syringes, pens etc. must generally be registered.
Even if you are traveling for a short time, you should always take a confirmation from your doctor (with stamp and signature) to prove that you need the medication personally.
Medication should always be taken along in its original packaging and with the package leaflet.

Import of narcotics
The Narcotic Control Dept. is responsible for this.
All necessary information, registration forms, a list of permitted and prohibited substances, quantity restrictions, etc. can be found at https://www.ncd.mhlw.go.jp/en/application2.html

Canada¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Canadian Embassy in Germany, as of 26.08.2023, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form. There are further requirements:

Prescription drugs with controlled substances:

Search the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and related regulations to determine if your drug contains a controlled substance: Controlled Drug and Substance Act and the Schedules of Controlled Drugs and Substances (Schedules)

There are 3 types of controlled substances:

• Narcotics, e.g:
  • Morphine
  • Oxycodone
  • Methadone
  • Hydromorphone
• Controlled drugs, e.g:
  • Barbiturates
  • Pentobarbital
  • Amfetamine
  • Anabolic steroids
• Targeted substances, e.g:
  • Zolpidem
  • Lorazepam
  • Alprazolam

Methylphenidate is a Schedule 3 substance and amfetamine is a Schedule 1 substance under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
There are specific requirements for each type of controlled substance.

Conditions for entering Canada with a narcotic / controlled drug (BtM/kD):

• The BtM/kD was purchased on the basis of a doctor’s prescription and is packaged in pharmacy or hospital packaging with the appropriate labeling (labeling, original blister);
• The label of the pharmacy / hospital pack must contain:
  • Instructions for use
  • Name of the patient
  • Order number
  • Name or brand name of the medication
  • Date of dispensing of the medication by the pharmacist
  • Name and address of the pharmacy or pharmacist
  • Name of the doctor who prescribed the medication
  • Quantity and strength of the medication per unit, if applicable
• The BtM/kD is in the possession of the person at the time of entry or departure (= no importation for third parties)
• The person is importing or exporting the BtM/kD for their own use or for the use of a person for whom they are responsible and who is traveling with them to meet the medical needs of the person for whom it was prescribed;
• The amount of BtM/kD imported or exported does not exceed the lesser of a single treatment OR a 30-day supply based on the usual daily dose prescribed by the physician;
• For exports: The export does not violate the laws and regulations of the country of destination
• On importation: The BtM/kD is declared to a customs officer at the time of importation into Canada.
• Individuals may not ship products containing a BtM/kD to or from Canada by mail or courier. Only retailers licensed under the NCR or FDR may do so.
• If a person stays in Canada for more than 30 days, they must make arrangements to see a doctor in Canada. BtM/kD may not be imported by mail.

Conditions for entry into Canada with a controlled substance:

Requirements according to the Benzodiazepines and Other Targeted Substances Regulations

If you are a resident of Canada, you can take the smallest amount of medication with a controlled substance:

• a single treatment with a specific substance, or
• a 90-day supply of a target substance, based on the usual daily dose

If you reside in another country, you can bring the smaller amount of medication with a controlled substance:

• a full container of a controlled substance, or
• a 90-day supply of a controlled substance, based on the usual daily dose, or
• the usual daily dose (of a controlled substance) for each day of your stay in Canada

The medication must be prescribed by a doctor, e.g. a doctor, dentist, nurse or nurse practitioner

The label of the medication container (!!!) must contain:

• Instructions for use
• Name of the patient
• Order number
• Name or brand name of the medication
• Date of dispensing of the medication by the pharmacist
• Name and address of the pharmacy or pharmacist
• Name of the doctor who prescribed the medication
• Quantity and strength of the medication per unit, if applicable

The medication must be intended for you or for a person for whom you are responsible and who is traveling with you.
You must declare the medication to customs when you arrive in Canada.
The requirements are the same when you enter or leave Canada.

Contacts

• For questions about entering and leaving Canada with prescription medications containing narcotics or controlled drugs:
  • Department for Exceptions, e-mail: exemption@hc-sc.gc.ca
• For questions about entering and leaving Canada with prescription medications containing other controlled substances.
  • Compliance Department, e-mail: compliance-conformite@hc-sc.gc.ca
• For information on traveling with prescription medications that do not contain controlled substances.
  • Health Products Border Compliance Program, e-mail: hpbcp-pcpsf@hc-sc.gc.ca

Colombia¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Colombia in Germany, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form as of 18.07.2023.

It is recommended that you take the form for confirmation from the doctor and certification from the state health authority (translated into Spanish) with you to avoid problems when entering the country.
The medical certificate must precisely describe the contents of the medication.
We also recommend contacting the relevant airlines.

Specific inquiries about the import of food and medicines can be directed to the Colombian Customs Department at
DIAN Direccion de Impuestos y Aduanas Nacionales

Malaysia¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Malaysia in Germany, as of 20.11.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

TRAVELLER’S GUIDE to BRINGING MEDICATION INTO MALAYSIA of the Malaysian Ministry of Health.

Generally required are:

• the valid prescription or a letter from the doctor with
  • Name of the drug
  • dosage required by the traveler
  • quantity brought along
• in English; otherwise a translation must be enclosed

Amfetamine (dextroamfetamine, levoamfetamine) and methylphenidate are controlled substances (page 26 of the following PDF, Regulation 9).
Special rules and separate forms must be observed for transportation, transit and export:
https://pharmacy.moh.gov.my/sites/default/files/document-upload/poisons-psychotropic-substances-regulations-1989-2-0_0.pdf

Maldives¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Malaysia in Germany, as of 17.11.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

Before entering the country with BtM preparations, a pre-authorization must be applied for by email to the Maldives Food and Drug Authority.
A valid prescription must be enclosed with the e-mail.
After approval by the authorities, the patient may take medication with them for the duration of their stay together with the medical certificate.

• The certificate from the attending physician should contain
  • Name of the patient
  • Name of the medicinal product(s)
  • therapeutic daily dose
• The certificate must be written in English or supported by an English translation.
• Contact details of the department for medical and therapeutic goods.
  • E-mail: mtg@health.gov.mv
  • Phone: +960 3014316
• The mail should be sent in cc to the Embassy of the Maldives in Germany

Monaco¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Monaco in Germany, as of 5.09.2023, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form or the “Schengen” form.
Monaco is located in the French customs territory and is therefore subject to Article 75 of the Schengen Agreement.
The patient must not have more medication with him/her than for 28 days of treatment, which corresponds to the maximum duration of treatment that can be prescribed on the prescription for this medicine.

Note from ADxS.org:
In Germany, BtM can now be prescribed on a prescription for a period of 3 months. It should be clarified with the respective embassy at an early stage whether this period now also applies to travel drugs under the Schengen Agreement.

Montenegro¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Montenegro in Germany, as of 24.08.2023, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.
The import of medicinal products containing controlled substances (drugs) into Montenegro is regulated by Article 43 of the Law on Prevention of Drug Abuse.
A person who crosses the national border,

• may take a medicinal product containing drugs in the quantity required for personal therapy
• for a period of up to 30 days
• based on the certificate/report of the chosen doctor or doctor specializing in mental health.
• When crossing the state border, the person is obliged to submit to the customs authority a certificate/an expert opinion on the need to possess the medicinal product, which must not be older than 90 days.

Nepal¶

The possession and import of various medicines is prohibited in Nepal. These include

• Amfetamine medication
• Vitamins in various combinations and limit values

Methylphenidate is not prohibited. We do not know whether import and possession are subject to further restrictions.

Download: List of medicines banned in Nepal.

Philippines¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Malaysia in Germany, as of 30.11.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

Patients can take medication with them to the Philippines if they have a doctor’s prescription.
The doctor’s license should also be presented.
These documents should be in English or translated.

For further questions, please contact Philippine Customs directly or the Philippine Food and Drug Administration.

Correspondence in English is recommended.

Thailand¶

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) appears to have been classified as Narcotics Category II by the Thai FDA since February 2025.
Previously, there was probably no classification at all and only a doctor’s certificate was required. This outdated information is still the basis for all the information and experience reports that can be found online.

As lisdexamfetamine has been considered a narcotic since February 2025, an application for transportation must be submitted in advance: https://permitfortraveler.fda.moph.go.th/nct_permit_main/
The application must be submitted at least 15 days before the trip (probably a maximum of 30 days before).

You will need to upload the application:

• The official travel document with the stamp of the doctor and the health authority (see https://www.bfarm.de/SharedDocs/Downloads/DE/Bundesopiumstelle/Betaeubungsmittel/Reisen/reise_other_formular.pdf?__blob=publicationFile)
• A copy of the recipe
• A copy of your passport

When entering Thailand, you must present yourself to the Customs Department (Red Channel) and submit the medication and supporting documents without being asked to do so.

At permitfortraveler you can find this: https://permitfortraveler.fda.moph.go.th/nct_permit_main/Upload/NARCO_list_(update_25.02.2025)_NEW.pdf
Check the Drug“ at permitfortraveler also shows that lisdexamfetamine falls into this category.

A person with ADHD reports that the application was approved within 2 days.

(Thanks to tlb)

Trinidad and Tobago¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Trinidad and Tobago in Germany, as of 27.07.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

1. Regulations for the importation of BTM preparations: The Dangerous Drugs Act of Trinidad and Tobago
2. Quantity restrictions for BTM drugs: The quantity must correspond to the quantity stated on the prescription, as prescribed by the attending physician
3. Documents or certificates: A copy of the prescription and a letter from the doctor listing the medication needed for the patient
4. Proper transportation: The medication must be labeled with the name of the patient/passenger and the corresponding instructions for use
5. Other information: If the patient is under 18 years of age, a certificate from the parents/legal guardians stating that they are the patient’s legal guardians must be provided

Turkey¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the embassy of Turkey in Germany, as of 31.01.2024, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

In principle, all medicines and medical devices, with the exception of hemp, cannabis and marijuana in the form of flower, may be imported into Turkey for the personal use of passengers.
The passenger must present documents proving that this medication must be taken during the journey. Certificates issued by a doctor or hospital or prescriptions prescribed by a doctor are acceptable in this context. It is also recommended to have a Schengen certificate issued by a doctor. The Schengen certificate does not need to be notarized at the health authorities and is accepted by Turkish authorities because it is an international document.

Only the amount of medication and tablets that the passenger actually needs during their stay in Turkey may be imported.
There are no further quantity limits for medicines. However, there must be no suspicion of commercial trade in the products.

The importation of cannabis, marijuana and hemp in the form of flower, even for use as medicine, is not permitted. If cannabis, marijuana or hemp in the form of flower must be taken for medical reasons, you should temporarily switch to tablets or oil for your trip to Turkey.

Further information can be obtained from the Medicines and Medical Devices of Turkey.

Ukraine¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Ukraine in Germany, as of 15.12.2023 it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form.

USA¶

According to information from the US Embassy in Berlin and the responsible health department dated 24.01.2025 is required:

• A certificate (in English) stating that the medication is being taken on an ongoing basis for medical reasons. There is no form for this. It must include:
  • specific name and dose of the product
  • the quantity (number of capsules)
  • Name of the patient
  • Residential address
  • Date of birth
  • Name of the doctor
  • Address and contact details of the doctor
  • Signature and stamp of the doctor.
• A certification from the responsible health authority. The health authority certifies
  • that the issuing doctor actually exists
  • that the doctor is licensed
• The preparation must be carried in the original container in the appropriate quantity for the travel period.
  • in the original container = blister or tin. Cardboard packaging is not required.
  • You may only take as much as is required for the travel time according to the prescription = no quantities that deviate significantly from the travel time
  • Risk otherwise: US authorities could assume the intention of illegal drug trafficking

According to the health authorities, it is not necessary to actively present the documents on entry. It is sufficient to present them when asked.

The necessary information can also be found on the homepage of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (Link: Traveling with Medication).

Many thanks to Paulina :-)

United Arab Emirates (UAE)¶

There are import restrictions/prohibitions, including for methylphenidate.
Illegal imports of medicines are punishable by imprisonment.
Before entering the country, a separate import permit can be applied for at the relevant consulate general.

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Germany, as of 22.01.2024, it is possible to take BtM with you using the “International” form. Prior registration is also required.

Information on taking medication with you (whether BtM or other prescriptions) can be found at https://mohap.gov.ae/en

Cyprus¶

According to a request from the Practice v. Königsmarck to the Embassy of Cyprus in Germany, as of 28.09.2023, it is possible to take medical cannabis or medical BtM with you using the “International” form.
The import of medical cannabis or medical narcotics requires prior authorization from the Minister of Health. This is required (by e-mail or fax):

• The completed application form
• A medical certificate stating which medication is being taken and for which illness
• A permit from the German authorities authorizing the possession and use of medicinal cannabis (medical narcotics)
• A copy of the recipe

Cannabis is a controlled substance in Cyprus under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1977 and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Regulations of 1979. The importation of (non-medical) cannabis containing even traces of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is therefore prohibited in any form.

4. Driving under medication¶

Driving under the influence of stimulants is also said to be illegal in Germany, but we are not yet aware of any further details.

In the case of criminal proceedings based on national law concerning the medically necessary and permissible use of medication (which, as in the case of ADHD, increases road safety), it would have to be examined on a case-by-case basis whether the national provisions applied violate higher-ranking European law.

4.1. Czech Republic: total ban on stimulants while driving¶

Information from the Czech Ministry of the Interior confirmed that any detection of amfetamines in the blood could result in criminal proceedings and the loss of a driver’s license.
Lisdexamfetamine has been on the Czech list of BTMs since 2017, which makes it illegal to drive a motor vehicle.
Methylphenidate is also affected.

Land Transportation Act, PART ONE TITLE VI, § 125c

“The substances are on the list of narcotics and psychotropic substances (Government Decree No. 463/2013, List No. 5). The driver may not drive a motor vehicle immediately after taking or under the influence of these substances.”⁴

This also applies explicitly if these result from the proper intake of prescribed ADHD medication.
There are gradations depending on the concentration of the active substance in the blood, but even at the lowest measurable blood concentration, the penalty for drivers is enormous. There is a fine of 1000 to 2000 euros and a driving ban of 1 to 2 years in the Czech Republic. So far, however, there is no recorded case in the statistics that the Czech police have prosecuted cases of lisdexamfetamine use by drivers.

The Czech Ministry of Health is aware that the active ingredient is used as a medication for ADHD. However, lisdexamfetamine is not available in the Czech Republic and no approval is planned.

We assume that this is even more likely to apply to attentin or amfetamine salts.

(Thanks to Pedro)

Against the background of verifiability even after⁵

• up to 43 hours of a single dose of methylphenidate
• up to 83 hours of a single dose of amfetamine medication
  this represents a serious disadvantage for people with ADHD.

4.2. Estonia: Total ban on stimulants while driving¶

The laws in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Slovakia penalize driving with any trace of a substance, even if it is a drug.⁶

(Thanks to Pedro)

Against the background of verifiability even after⁵

• up to 43 hours of a single dose of methylphenidate
• up to 83 hours of a single dose of amfetamine medication
  this represents a serious disadvantage for people with ADHD.

4.3. Poland: total ban on stimulants while driving¶

The laws in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Slovakia penalize driving with any trace of a substance, even if it is a drug.⁶

(Thanks to Pedro)

Against the background of verifiability even after⁵

• up to 43 hours of a single dose of methylphenidate
• up to 83 hours of a single dose of amfetamine medication
  this represents a serious disadvantage for people with ADHD.

4.4. Slovenia: Total ban on stimulants while driving¶

The laws in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Slovakia penalize driving with any trace of a substance, even if it is a drug.⁶

(Thanks to Pedro)

Against the background of verifiability even after⁵

• up to 43 hours of a single dose of methylphenidate
• up to 83 hours of a single dose of amfetamine medication
  this represents a serious disadvantage for people with ADHD.

4.5. Slovakia: Total ban on stimulants while driving¶

The laws in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland, Slovenia and Slovakia penalize driving with any trace of a stimulant, even if it is a drug.⁶
Against the background of verifiability even after⁵

• up to 43 hours of a single dose of methylphenidate
• up to 83 hours of a single dose of amfetamine medication
  this represents a serious disadvantage for people with ADHD.

5. Drug tests and ADHD medication¶

Screening for substance abuse using nonspecific point-of-care immunoassay procedures (“rapid tests”) can lead to false positives for ADHD medications.
There are barely any studies looking at the risk of “false positive” immunoassay test results in patients treated with atomoxetine, bupropion, clonidine, guanfacine, methylphenidate and modafinil. Bupropion is said to cause “false positive” immunoassay results.
There is a lack of systematic, updated assessments and validation of cross-reactivity patterns for immunoassays. Advanced laboratory methods can differentiate between drug ingestion and illicit amfetamine by stereospecific analysis of dextro- and levoamfetamine; however, these analytical services are not widely available for routine drug testing. Confirmatory laboratory analysis should always be performed for “presumptive” positive immunoassay screening results.⁷

A laboratory study found evidence of degradation of medical dextroamfetamine to methamfetamine by N-methylation in humans in vivo. 31% of the urine samples contained dextromethamfetamine, albeit less than 1%. Degradation via this pathway therefore occurs in such small quantities that it is probably of no medical relevance, but it is important for the detection of amfetamine in cases of suspected drug use. No methamfetamine (neither dMeth nor lMeth) was found during the degradation of lisdexamfetamine or dextroamfetamine in vitro. Among methamfetamine drugs, no racemate of levo- and dextromethamhetamine was usually found, but predominantly pure lMeth or dMeth ⁸⁹

Some prescription drugs that are no longer approved are converted into amfetamine or methamfetamine in the body. These include amfetaminil, benzphetamine, clobenzorex, famprofazone, fenethylline, fenproporex and prenylamine⁹
Also available is selegiline (deprenyl) for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, which is metabolized in vivo to L-methamfetamine and further to L-amfetamine.¹⁰