TanzaniaTravelling with ADHD medication: rules, permits and documents
AfricaLast checked 20 Jul 2026High confidenceHow we rate a record
Tanzania 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: Schedule IV narcotics under the 1961 Convention (for example cannabis and heroin) may not be carried by travellers even if permitted at departure.
By medication
Brand names first, generic in brackets. Each line resolves the drug class rule below, plus anything Tanzania records specifically for that medication.
- Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)Restrictedmax 30 days' supply
Tanzania allows a valid prescription covering up to a 30-day dose of psychotropic ADHD stimulants, and the original prescription must be presented at customs. Keep medication in original packaging with the doctor's prescription. The Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (formerly TFDA) is the competent authority.
- 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 ER and viloxazine are not internationally controlled; carry a valid prescription.
- 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)
Prescription- Quantity
- 30 days. 30 days' dose for personal medical use; above the international limit needs a TMDA import permit
- Permit
- Not required up to 30 days' supply. Above that, it is. No permit for personal carry within the 30-day/international limit; a TMDA import permit is required above it (apply at least 30 days before the consignment arrives).
- Documents
- prescription, customs declaration
Psychotropic (ADHD stimulants, benzodiazepines, sleep)
Restricted- Quantity
- 30 days. Psychotropic substances: 30 days' dose (narcotic drugs also 30 days' dose)
- Permit
- Not required. No Tanzanian authorisation. A valid prescription and the original prescription presented at customs, covering a 30-day dose. No certificate from Tanzanian health authorities is asked for.
Not internationally controlled
PrescriptionAtomoxetine, guanfacine ER and viloxazine are not internationally controlled; carry a valid prescription.
Responsible authority
Tanzania Food & Drugs Authority (now Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority, TMDA)
P.O. Box 77150, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania; Tel +255 22 2450512; Fax +255 22 24508793; e-mail info@tfda.go.tz
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 Tanzania, 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 packThis 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 Tanzania embassy or consulate before travelling.