Airport Security Measures: Travelling with Allergy Medications

Filed in archive Living with Allergies on August 14, 2006

It's been three days since the passengers have been banned from carrying liquids, gels and lotions on board becasue of a terrorism threat. The current threat level remains high (code orange), but yesterday, the US Transportation Security Administration has issued a few adjustments to the ban, now allowing passengers to bring on board small doses of liquid medications.

The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network has these recommendations particularly for travelers with allergies:

• If you carry an epinephrine auto-injector, or other prescription medication, be sure that the pharmacy label is attached, and that the name matches the passenger's identification. Carry a letter from your doctor that explains the need for this medication. See the Sample Letter for Carrying Self-Injectable Epinephrine Aboard Commercial Airplanes.


• If you carry a liquid medication, such as Benadryl®, you may encounter close scrutiny. Before your trip you may want to ask your doctor about possible alternatives, such as self-dissolve tablets. Be sure to check the ingredients on any new medication. See more information about self-dissolve tablets.

These security inspections will take time and you'll need to be patient. If you absolutely must travel now, be sure to be at the check in early.