Note: This article provides guidance on what to consider when taking medication while traveling. This article cannot replace a medical consultation

‍

Whether privately or professionally, many people travel around the world for various reasons. One important topic is often forgotten: taking medication while traveling. This article highlights what needs to be considered when preparing for travel and taking medication.

‍

Travel preparation

Before departure, you should check whether the amount of tablets, drops, etc. that you still have at home is sufficient for the duration of the trip. If you are unable to take enough medication with you, find out in advance whether you can also receive the medication you are taking at your destination. Medicines are not equally available in every country, as approval processes are often subject to national regulations. There may also be additional costs abroad, which may be covered by your health insurance in Germany.

‍

medication intake

If medication has to be taken regularly, the question is how to take it when traveling, especially in other time zones. Should the “home” cycle be followed or can the intake be adjusted? When taking medication, three factors should be considered in principle, but depending on the medication:

• the revenue rhythm
• the circadian rhythm (e.g. with glucocorticoids)
• food intake (diabetes medication)

In principle, it can be said that medication intake should be adjusted if there is a time difference of more than two hours.

Revenue rhythm

Some medications should be taken at regular intervals to ensure a certain level of medication in the body.
In this case, travel may affect the required dose And that interval have the income. How medication intake should be adjusted depends on whether the journey is heading west or east:
When traveling east, there is a shortening of the day, while traveling west, there is an extension of the day. A one-time dose increase may therefore be necessary when traveling westwards and a dose reduction may be necessary when traveling eastwards. Whether and what adjustment of the dose and interval is necessary should be discussed with the treatment provider.

Circasian rhythm

Not every medication requires a dose adjustment. One example of this is glucocorticoids and the most well-known glucocorticoid, cortisone. Glucocorticoids are often taken according to the circadian rhythm, i.e. the day-night or sleep/wake rhythm. When there is a time difference, especially during longer stays, our body is subject to a new daily rhythm. The intake should be gradually adjusted to this rhythm until the usual intake time is reached. Appropriate adjustments are also recommended on the return journey. Here, too, it is important to discuss the trip and appropriate adjustments to medication intake with the treatment provider.

Dietary intake

If medication intake is linked to food intake, medication intake should also be adjusted here. Here, too, it is recommended to discuss the trip with the treatment provider in advance.

‍

conclusion

As part of your trip preparation, check whether your supply of medicines is sufficient for the duration of the trip. Also check whether it is necessary to adjust your intake. In addition to your treating doctor, your pharmacist is also the point of contact for this.

‍