PhilippinesTravelling with ADHD medication: rules, permits and documents
AsiaLast checked 20 Jul 2026High confidenceHow we rate a record
Every medication we track can come into Philippines on your prescription, up to 30 days' supply, carried in original packaging.
Serious penalties: Controlled substances are governed by RA 9165; severe penalties including life imprisonment for trafficking. Documentation must be carried in original.
By medication
Brand names first, generic in brackets. Each line resolves the drug class rule below, plus anything Philippines records specifically for that medication.
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)Prescriptionmax 30 days' supply
The Philippines applies one uniform 'dangerous drugs' rule (RA 9165) to all three ADHD stimulant classes: a prescription and physician's letter suffice for stays/supply of 30 days or less, but longer stays require advance PDEA authorization plus a certificate from the traveller's home drug-control authority, applied for at least 30 working days before arrival.
- Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)Prescriptionmax 30 days' supply
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Dexamphetamine (dexamfetamine)Prescriptionmax 30 days' supply
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
- Strattera (atomoxetine)Prescription
Atomoxetine, guanfacine ER and viloxazine are not internationally scheduled; a normal prescription suffices.
- Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)Prescriptionmax 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)
Prescription- Quantity
- 30 days. ≤30 days no permit; PDEA Certificate of Authorization required above 30 days
- Permit
- Not required up to 30 days' supply. Above that, it is. Apply at least 30 days ahead. Written request to PDEA, submitted 30 working days ahead; reply within 15 working days.
- Documents
- prescription, doctor letter, original packaging
Psychotropic (ADHD stimulants, benzodiazepines, sleep)
Prescription- Quantity
- 30 days. 30 days or less: prescription + physician's letter only. More than 30 days: a PDEA Certificate of Authorization and a home-country Certificate of Authorization are also required (request form at pdea.gov.ph; obtain well in advance, as the official processing time is not published).
- Permit
- Not required up to 30 days' supply. Above that, it is. Apply at least 30 days ahead. No permit up to 30 days. Above that, a PDEA Certificate of Authorization plus a certificate from your own drug-control authority, applied for at least 30 working days before arrival.
Not internationally controlled
PrescriptionAtomoxetine, guanfacine ER and viloxazine are not internationally scheduled; a normal prescription suffices.
Responsible authority
Compliance Service, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)
Rm 213 PDEA Bldg, NIA Northside Rd, National Government Center, Pinyahan, Quezon City, Philippines; Telefax: +632-8920 8110; Tel: +632-8927 9702 loc. 197/198; E-mail: cs@pdea.gov.ph; Website: https://pdea.gov.ph/
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.
Your trip pack
A doctor's letter for Philippines, filled in with your medications and your stops, ready to sign.
The rules above are free and stay free. The pack is the paperwork that goes with them: a checklist for each stop in travel order, a printable PDF, and the letter to take to your GP.
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 Philippines embassy or consulate before travelling.