United KingdomTravelling with ADHD medication: rules, permits and documents

Europe

Last checked 20 Jul 2026High confidenceHow we rate a record

Every medication we track can come into United Kingdom on your prescription, up to 90 days' supply, carried in original packaging.

By medication

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

Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine)Prescriptionmax 90 days' supply
Same 3-month rule.
Ritalin, Concerta (methylphenidate)Prescriptionmax 90 days' supply
The same rule as Vyvanse above.
Dexamphetamine (dexamfetamine)Prescriptionmax 90 days' supply
Not individually named; presumed Class B/Schedule 2 under the generic Amphetamine entry — interpreted, not explicit.
Strattera (atomoxetine)Prescription
Atomoxetine, guanfacine ER and viloxazine are not internationally controlled; carry a valid prescription.
Adderall (mixed amphetamine salts)Prescriptionmax 90 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: 90 days. Up to 3 months' supply
Permit: Not required up to 90 days' supply. Above that, it is. Apply at least 30 days ahead. Personal licence only to exceed 3 months; contact DFLU ~1 month ahead. No public form.
Documents: prescription, doctor letter

Psychotropic (ADHD stimulants, benzodiazepines, sleep)

Prescription

Quantity: 90 days. Up to 3 months' supply
Permit: Not required up to 90 days' supply. Above that, it is. Apply at least 30 days ahead. Same as narcotic class.
Documents: prescription, doctor letter

Connecting through United Kingdom

No specific airside-transit guidance; assume entry rules apply if you clear immigration.

Responsible authority

Home Office — Drug and Firearms Licensing Unit (DFLU)

dflu.ie@homeoffice.gov.uk; 0300 105 0248

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.

Take medicine in or out of the UKGovernment, 2023-07-21

Your trip pack

A doctor's letter for United Kingdom, filled in with your medications and your stops, ready to sign.

A$19

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 pack

Common 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 United Kingdom embassy or consulate before travelling.