Medication

Bringing Medication Into the UK

You can bring prescription medication into the UK for personal use. There is no strict quantity limit, but you should carry only what you need for your trip. For stays of up to three months, bring your full supply in its original packaging along with supporting documents.

• Carry a doctor's letter. The letter should include your name, the medication name (use the generic/chemical name, not just the brand), the dosage, and why you need it. This helps avoid questions at the border.
• Use original packaging. Keep all medication in the containers or boxes from your pharmacy. Loose pills in a bag can raise concerns at customs.
• Pack medication in your carry-on. Do not put essential medication in checked luggage. If your bags are delayed, you will still have what you need.

Controlled Drugs

Some medications are classified as controlled drugs in the UK. These include strong painkillers (morphine, codeine), ADHD medication (methylphenidate, amphetamines), and certain anti-anxiety drugs (diazepam).

• Stays under 3 months: You can bring up to 3 months' supply of a controlled drug with a doctor's letter. The letter must confirm the medication name, dose, and that it is prescribed to you.
• Stays over 3 months: You need a personal licence from the UK Home Office. Apply at least 20 working days before your trip through the Home Office website.
• Banned substances: Some drugs legal in other countries may be completely banned in the UK. Check the Home Office list of controlled substances before traveling.

Pharmacies in London

Pharmacies in the UK are easy to find. Boots is the largest chain with hundreds of locations across London, including stores on most major high streets and inside many train stations. Superdrug and Lloyds Pharmacy are also common.

Opening Hours

Most pharmacies are open Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Many Boots and Superdrug stores stay open until 8:00 or 9:00 PM. Sunday hours are shorter, usually 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Large branches in central London, train stations, and airports often have extended hours.

Accessibility

Major chain pharmacies are generally step-free at the entrance. Boots flagship stores on Oxford Street and in Waterloo Station have wide aisles and accessible counters. Smaller independent pharmacies in older buildings may have a step at the door, but staff will usually come outside to assist you.

Over-the-Counter Medication

Many common medications are available without a prescription in the UK. You can buy painkillers, antihistamines, cold remedies, antacids, and basic first aid supplies from any pharmacy or supermarket.

Important name difference: What Americans call acetaminophen is called paracetamol in the UK. It is the same drug. You will find it in every pharmacy and supermarket, but it is sold in packs of no more than 32 tablets at pharmacies and 16 tablets at non-pharmacy shops.

Ibuprofen and aspirin are also widely available over the counter in small pack sizes.

Getting a Prescription Filled

If you run out of medication during your stay, a UK pharmacist may be able to provide an emergency supply of certain prescription drugs. This is at the pharmacist's discretion and usually limited to a few days' supply. Bring your original prescription or doctor's letter to the pharmacy.

For a full prescription, you will need to see a doctor. Visitors can use NHS walk-in centres or urgent care centres for non-emergency medical needs. Private GP clinics are another option and typically offer same-day appointments for a fee of 50 to 150 GBP.