BrazilTravelling with ADHD medication: rules, permits and documents
South AmericaLast checked 20 Jul 2026Medium confidenceHow we rate a record
Brazil treats these medications differently. Of the 7 we track, 4 come in on paperwork with a supply cap and 3 need only your prescription.
Serious penalties: Controlled-substance lists (A1/A2/A3/B1 and others) may only be imported by prior exceptional authorization; list C3 is absolutely prohibited.
By medication
Brand names first, generic in brackets. Each line resolves the drug class rule below, plus anything Brazil records specifically for that medication.
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)Restrictedmax 30 days' supply
Brazil (ANVISA) requires a valid medical prescription for controlled medicines. ADHD stimulants such as methylphenidate and amphetamines fall under psychotropic Lists A3/B2, limited to about a 30-day supply of treatment (List B1 substances up to 60 days). Keep medication in original packaging with a printed prescription, ideally with a doctor's note; Portuguese-language documentation is recommended. For amounts exceeding the limits, contact ANVISA.
- Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)Restrictedmax 30 days' supply
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Dexamphetamine (dexamfetamine)Restrictedmax 30 days' supply
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Strattera (atomoxetine)Prescription
Atomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine are not internationally scheduled; carry with a normal prescription in original packaging.
- Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)Restrictedmax 30 days' supply
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Intuniv (guanfacine)Prescription
The same rule as Strattera above.
- Qelbree (viloxazine)Prescription
The same rule as Strattera above.
Rules by drug class
Narcotic (opioids)
Permit required- Quantity
- Governed by the treatment duration in the prescription
- Permit
- Required. Exceptional import authorization via a SEI petition; approval is not guaranteed.
- Documents
- prescription, medical certificate
Psychotropic (ADHD stimulants, benzodiazepines, sleep)
Restricted- Quantity
- 30 days. For psychotropic ADHD stimulants (ANVISA Lists A3/B2): a quantity enough for a maximum of 30 days of treatment; for List B1 substances up to 60 days
- Permit
- Not published. ANVISA guidance describes a prescription-based allowance of about 30 days, while the controlled-list rule on the same record requires prior exceptional authorization for List A3 substances, which is where ADHD stimulants sit. Whether a traveller needs authorisation below the quantity limit is unresolved. Contact ANVISA before travel.
Not internationally controlled
PrescriptionAtomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine are not internationally scheduled; carry with a normal prescription in original packaging.
Responsible authority
National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), Management of Controlled Drugs (GPCON)
e-mail: med.controlados@anvisa.gov.br, rel@anvisa.gov.br; Phone: +55 61 3462 5429; Fax: +55 61 3462 5879; www.anvisa.gov.br
Sources
The source behind everything above, so you can check it yourself rather than take our word for it. Always confirm the current rule with the source before you travel.
- Importação de medicamentos sujeitos a controle especialGovernment, 2025-01-28
- ANVISA SEI (exceptional import petition)In the Trip Pack
Application forms and portals
1 form for Brazil, found and organised with your apply-by date in the trip pack.
Plus a doctor's letter pre-filled with your medications and every stop, the deadline counted back from the day you fly, and a checklist in travel order.
Build your trip packCommon questions
This page organises publicly available government information and links. It is not legal or medical advice. Rules change and enforcement varies, so always confirm with the official sources above or the Brazil embassy or consulate before travelling.