100ml liquid rule and chiller packs for transporting medicine

[Ev1dent]

According to the rules, it appears that you can take 100ml of liquids in a clear bag, but my wife requires prescription tablets that must be kept refridgerated at all times. Previously, we have taken it in a small collapsible chiller bag with a number of frozen gel ice-bricks and for long flights got ice from the flight attendants to keep it cold once the icepacks start to melt. The ice packs are more than 100ml and the chiller bag is non-transparent and won't fit into a 20x20 bag.

We will be travelling to and in the US and via LHR. Are we likely to have any problems and if so, what does anyone have suggestions for how we might minimise them.

 

[serfty]

Look here on the Qantas Web Site:

• Flying with Us - Before You Travel - Baggage - Carry on - Travel to and from the USA

Excluded from the measures are baby formula or juice if a baby or small child is travelling. Prescription medicine and non-prescription medicine is allowed provided the passenger can demonstrate a bona fide need for these items.

Generally a photocopy of the prescription would be a good start ... & ...

Edit: As per NM's following Post, "I would [not] be relying on security screening agents knowing that a particular medication requires refrigeration just based on the name of the product written on a script.", a letter "from the prescribing doctor stating that the medication must be kept refrigerated at all times" could be useful.

 

[NM]

Generally a photocopy of the prescription would suffice.

I would suggest it is worth getting a signed letter from the prescribing doctor stating that the medication must be kept refrigerated at all times, as well as carrying a copy of the original medication packaging. I would be relying on security screening agents knowing that a particular medication requires refrigeration just based on the name of the product written on a script.

 

[Commuter]

Also have her doctor describe the refrigeration method in a letter (and make sure it is signed and stamped, or written on a official letterhead and signed) as you have outlined, since you need gel-based refrigerant. Otherwise the refrigerant may not be able to get through the security. Have two copies of this letter done in case they choose to keep one (or you lose it) and you may need it for the return trip.

You really won't believe how difficult it can be at times to have things worked out based on common sense at airport security, so pull all stops to ensure that her medicine travels safely, especially if it's a life-saving sort.

 

[HardieBoys]

I'd advise you to get your doctor to write a letter stating you need to transport the medication, and include the following information:

Your wife's name
Your wife's date of birth
The name of the medication
A rough estimate of the quantity of medication
The requirement for refrigeration
The prescribing doctor

You don't need to put the indication for prescription of medication, usually the phrase "required for the necessary treatment of a medical condition" should suffice.

If you look at the CMI (consumer medication information) leaflet that should come with every dispensed prescription, it will specify storage and handling information for that particular medication, as advised by the pharmaceutical company.

If you can't locate the CMI for the particular medication, your doctor should be able to readily download it via MIMS or a similar site.

Finally, there are regulations that govern the exportation of PBS medicines by Australians (i.e. taking them overseas):

Taking and sending PBS medicines overseas - Medicare Australia

is a good link to explain the bits and bobs.

Thus, you should be able to demonstrate to the relevant authorities two informants (your doctor and the pharmaceutical manufacturer) the need for medication refrigeration.