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Medication Minefield: Cruise passengers face bans
24 May
Summary
- Codeine is banned in Japan and the UAE, affecting many UK travelers.
- Passengers may face severe penalties for bringing prohibited medicines.
- Prescriptions and doctor's notes are essential for controlled medications.
P&O Cruises is issuing a critical warning to passengers traveling to Japan and the United Arab Emirates regarding medication regulations. Many common UK medications, including those containing codeine such as co-codamol, are strictly prohibited for personal import in these destinations.
Passengers found with banned substances face severe penalties. The cruise operator emphasizes that even over-the-counter medicines may be illegal. An import certificate is required for codeine, but its approval is not guaranteed by Japanese or UAE authorities.
For any medications, especially controlled or injectable drugs, passengers are advised to carry a doctor's prescription and a detailed medical report. P&O Cruises strongly recommends passengers confirm medication legality with the relevant embassies before their voyages to avoid serious consequences.
