trying to send my sons ADD medication from US to Germany ( I have a Dr. note )

[Grannyroler]

it’s so expensive to send any advice

[STEM_Dad]

I don't have any advice, but I do have a question.

How long are your sons going to be in Germany?

If they are there for a few months or less, then perhaps sending medication is the best option. (I think you might find some helpful information if you check with the postal service in both the US and Germany. That's how I would start searching for information.)

{IF STAY IN GERMANY IS MONTHS, OR MORE.}

However, if they are going to be on Germany for an extended time (months or years, such as for school, work, or family), then perhaps establishing ADHD care with a doctor on Germany and receiving prescriptions directly there would be better as a longer term solution.

(Note: That might result in a change of medications. If the German doctor and their doctor in the US will agree to coordinate care together, it might make for the best option long term.)

• I thought of this because on a different ADHD forum and ADHDer from England was working in Germany for over a year, and they had to establish care with a German doctor in order to receive prescriptions at the local pharmacy where they were. (It was a faster and more affordable solution for them, compared to making frequent visits back to England to visit the Chemist [that's the UK term for what we call a Pharmacist].)

[Kuhlbeans in reply to STEM_Dad]

While considering a study abroad program, my daughter learned that amphetamines (ie Adderall) are illegal in most European countries. Shipping would be too risky to chance for me. I will have to research what medicine is allowed as she is pretty discouraged about this barrier and the prospect of having to change her medical treatment. Yet another unfortunate aspect of living with ADHD.

[STEM_Dad in reply to Kuhlbeans]

According to the information that I found online, methylphenidate (the other type of stimulant medication for ADHD) is legal for the treatment of ADHD in Italy. Apparently, the Italian name for it is Metilfenidato.

It's best known under the names Ritalin (for Instant Release) and Concerta (for extended release).

Has your daughter done a medication trial on methylphenidate before?

My web search also says that non-stimulant ADHD medication atomoxetine (Strattera) is also legal in Italy. I know that not as many people respond well to it as to stimulants, but it worked very well for me for three years. (I recently switched to a different medication, which is slightly better for me, but it is also on the list of medications that are illegal in Italy.)

[GabyHIS]

Hello Grannyroler:

Shipping medications internationally, including ADHD medication, can be complex due to legal restrictions. While having a doctor’s note is helpful, it’s crucial to check both German laws and with the U.S. Postal Service regulations.

I recommend reviewing this USPS resource for detailed guidelines. It provides important information about shipping medications abroad:

pe.usps.com/text/pub52/pub5....

If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

Best,

GabyHIS