Papua New GuineaTravelling with ADHD medication: rules, permits and documents

By medication

Brand names first, generic in brackets. Each line resolves the drug class rule below, plus anything Papua New Guinea records specifically for that medication.

• Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)Not named: Unclear

  Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is not named in Papua New Guinea's law (Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, Schedule 1; Controlled Substance Act 2021, Schedules I to V), so no rule for it is published. Ask the authority listed here before you travel.

• Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)Unclearmax 90 days' supply

  Methylphenidate is not in Schedule 1 of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, so it is not a dangerous drug under that Act, and no PNG source sets a clear rule for a traveller carrying it. As a medicine, the Medicines and Cosmetics Act 1999, section 4(3), lets the licensing authority permit a personal import of up to three months' supply at the manufacturer's recommended dose. Declare it to PNG Customs on arrival and contact the Department of Health before you travel.

• Dexedrine (dexamfetamine)Permit required

  Amphetamine, with its isomers and salts, is a dangerous drug under Schedule 1 of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, so dexamfetamine and mixed amphetamine salts may be imported only under a licence from the Minister for Health (section 5). Otherwise their import is prohibited (section 4(2)) and the medicine may be seized by Customs (section 10). The licence is designed for medical practitioners and pharmacists; a traveller would have to apply as a person who satisfies the Minister that they are a fit and proper person. No form, fee or processing time is published. Declare any prescription medicine to PNG Customs on arrival. Methylphenidate is not in Schedule 1; see its own line.

• Strattera (atomoxetine)Permit requiredmax 90 days' supply

  Atomoxetine, guanfacine and viloxazine are not controlled substances, but PNG Customs lists medicinal and prescription drugs as restricted imports needing the permission of the Minister for Health. The Medicines and Cosmetics Act 1999, section 4(3), lets the licensing authority permit a personal import of up to three months' supply at the manufacturer's recommended dose. Ask the Department of Health for permission before you travel, carry your prescription and declare the medicines on arrival.

• Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)Permit required

  The same rule as Dexedrine above.

• Intuniv (guanfacine)Permit requiredmax 90 days' supply

  The same rule as Strattera above.

• Qelbree (viloxazine)Permit requiredmax 90 days' supply

  The same rule as Strattera above.

Rules by drug class