Can I take my TRT medication abroad?

Yes, with the right paperwork. We can give you a travel letter that lists your prescribed medication and why you take it, to show at security and customs.

How to get a travel letter

You can request a travel letter in the Voy app, or email trt@manual.co with the country you are visiting and your outward and return dates. We will email the letter to you. Ask around a month before you travel, and at least a few days before. The letter is valid for 3 months, so if your trip is further away than that, ask nearer the time so it matches your current prescription.

The letter shows your name, date of birth, address, each medication and its pack size, your destination and your dates. It does not state your dose; your prescription copy does, so carry both.

What to pack

• The travel letter and a copy of your prescription. Some airlines ask for the prescription.
• Your medication in its original packaging, in your hand luggage, and only what you need for the trip.
• Testosterone does not need a fridge. HCG does once it is mixed, so take a sealed vial and mix it on arrival if you will have a fridge; otherwise leave it at home. Pre-drawn syringes cannot be taken on a plane, so draw up on arrival.

Country rules

Each country sets its own rules for prescription medicines, and testosterone is a controlled medicine in many of them, so check the official government website or the embassy of your destination before you go. The ones we are asked about most:

• USA and Turkey: testosterone is controlled; you may need to declare it on arrival.
• UAE: you need approval in advance from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP); the travel letter is part of that application.
• Thailand and Japan: an import permit is required; apply before you travel.
• Poland: up to five packs of each medicine for personal use are allowed; more than that is an offence, and border officers make the final decision. Carry only what you need, in its original packaging.

Doses while you are away

Do not change your dose on your own. If your trip means you would miss an injection, see Can I double dose while travelling with my medication?, or ask your doctor before you go.