In light of the upcoming peak travel season and the more than 2024 million vacation trips taken by the Austrian population in 27, Pharmig, the voluntary association representing the Austrian pharmaceutical industry, is calling for particularly careful handling of medications while traveling. Secretary General Alexander Herzog emphasizes the importance of a well-prepared first-aid kit and the correct handling of medications while away from home.
This includes not only proper storage to ensure the effectiveness of medications, but also the proper disposal of medications no longer needed. Pharmig emphasizes the role of pharmaceuticals as useful products that must be handled with the necessary care, especially while on the move, to enable rapid and safe medical care in the event of illness.
The travel first aid kit: An indispensable companion
A carefully compiled first-aid kit is an essential part of travel preparation and can be extremely beneficial in the event of an unexpected illness or minor ailments while on vacation. Alexander Herzog of Pharmig points out that carrying a first-aid kit can "save a lot of time and enable rapid access to medical care." This is especially true for people who must take certain medications regularly. For this group, comprehensive preparation is essential to ensure continuous medication throughout their stay.
The preparation of a travel first-aid kit should be tailored to the individual, taking into account the type of trip, the destination, and personal health needs. This typically includes basic medications for pain, fever, cold symptoms, and gastrointestinal complaints, as well as wound care and allergy medications. For longer stays or trips to more remote areas, it may be advisable to carry more specific medications that may not be available locally. Consultation with your family doctor or pharmacist before traveling is essential to select the appropriate medications and clarify dosages.
Correct storage and transport of medicines
An often underestimated aspect of handling medications while traveling is their proper storage. Caution is especially important when traveling to warm regions. Many active ingredients are sensitive to high temperatures and direct sunlight. If a medication is stored incorrectly, its effectiveness may diminish without any external evidence. In the worst case, an ineffective medication could delay recovery or even lead to health complications.
Therefore, Alexander Herzog strongly recommends storing medications in a cool, dry place, and away from light. Specific storage instructions can be found in each package insert, which should be carefully reviewed before departure. Temperature-sensitive medications, such as insulin or certain vaccines, require special cooling bags or containers to ensure compliance with the prescribed temperature ranges.
When traveling by plane, it is advisable to carry any necessary medication in your hand luggage. This is a precautionary measure in case your main checked baggage is lost or delayed. When carrying liquid medication, the applicable regulations for liquids in hand luggage must be observed. A doctor's certificate, ideally in German and English, can help avoid delays at security checks, especially if large quantities or unusual preparations are involved. It is also advisable to check with your doctor or pharmacist well in advance of departure to see whether an import permit is required for certain medications in the destination country in order to avoid problems upon entry. Different countries have different regulations regarding the import of medications, especially narcotics or strong painkillers.
Responsible disposal of medicines abroad
Responsibility for medicines does not end with their use or expiration date, but also includes their proper disposal. Leftover tablets, vials with residual liquid, or expired medications should not be disposed of in household waste or down the toilet. This practice can lead to active ingredients entering the environment and causing harm. It is often more difficult to find suitable disposal options abroad, but Pharmig urges travelers to be careful here as well.
In many countries, similar to Austria, medications no longer needed can be returned to the nearest pharmacy. Pharmacies are usually the first point of contact for environmentally friendly disposal of leftover medications. They are familiar with local disposal guidelines and can ensure that the medications are collected and destroyed according to regulations. Alexander Herzog emphasizes the necessity of this diligence with the statement: "Responsibility for our environment does not end at the Austrian border."
Herzog cites another practical example of careful handling, including with medicinal ointments: After applying the cream, hands should be cleaned with a cloth before washing. This prevents the active ingredients of the ointments from entering the wastewater and thus entering the water cycle. Such small but conscious actions help minimize the impact of pharmaceutical residues on the environment and protect water quality.
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