Can I take Concerta to Tonga?

The rules for Concerta (methylphenidate (extended release))

Methylphenidate is named in Schedule 1 of Tonga's Illicit Drugs Control Act [CAP 10.15] as a Class A illicit drug. Section 6 of the same Act gives an international traveller's exemption that works on its own, with no permit, application or approval step: a person undergoing treatment for a medical condition who is entering, leaving or transiting through Tonga may possess quantities lawfully prescribed to them for a period of not more than one month, provided they have written authority from the doctor treating them. The exemption is written to cover entry, exit and transit in the same terms. A 2021 fact sheet published jointly by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Revenue & Customs sets out a different track for arriving passengers generally: declare medicines to a Customs officer, hold a copy of the prescription or a doctor's letter confirming treatment, keep the medicine in its original container, and a maximum of three to six months supply depending on the situation and goods. The two official documents do not agree on quantity. This record treats the Act as controlling for a Schedule 1 substance and records both rather than choosing between them. Class A penalties under the Act run to a fine of up to $1,000,000 or up to 30 years imprisonment. The Ministry of Health Pharmaceuticals Section (tongadrugregulatory@gmail.com, +676 23200 ext 1368) is the authority to ask.

What to do

1. 01valid prescription
2. 02doctor's letter/certificate
3. 03medication in original container