Some medications that are commonly used in our daily lives are considered sensitive in Canada. Carrying these, or exceeding the permitted quantities, when passing through customs can lead to serious consequences.
I. Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Prescription Medications
According to reports, Canadian regulations allow travelers to bring in a single course of treatment or a 90-day supply of over-the-counter medications. Furthermore, customs regulations stipulate that these medications must be for the personal use of the traveler, their companions, or individuals under their care and supervision.
When bringing OTC medications through customs, please ensure they remain in their original packaging with the original labels and instructions intact. This allows customs officers to clearly identify the medication and its ingredients.
Prescription drugs are medications that can only be dispensed, purchased, and used with a prescription from a licensed physician. The Canadian government mandates that if you are bringing prescription drugs into Canada, you may only carry a single course of treatment or a 90-day supply, and they must be for the personal use of the traveler, their companions, or individuals under their care and supervision. The original packaging, labels, and usage instructions must be retained.
II. Medications Containing Ephedrine: Contac, B&J, Tylenol, etc.
Ephedrine, also known as ephedrine alkaloid, is a sympathomimetic amine generally used to treat asthma, narcolepsy, and obesity. Ephedrine is also used as a stimulant and an appetite suppressant.
Pseudoephedrine is the dextrorotatory isomer of ephedrine and is also a stimulant that can relieve symptoms such as tissue congestion, edema, and nasal congestion caused by colds or allergies.
However, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are also key ingredients in the production of methamphetamine. In January 2003, Canada mandated that all pharmaceutical and transport companies involved in the production, import, or export of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine must hold a license and file declarations. When bringing such cold medications into the country, please be extremely careful to check whether the ingredients contain ephedrine or pseudoephedrine.
III. Opioid Medications: Compound Licorice Tablets
Compound Licorice Tablets are often used as a cough suppressant and expectorant; however, they actually contain opium powder. Opioid drugs are alkaloids and their derivatives extracted from opium (poppy), meaning these medications contain what is known as opium or poppy derivatives. High-dose usage can lead to coma, respiratory depression, and addiction. Customs generally considers these medications to contain controlled substances, so please exercise extreme caution.