Can a patient travel with lorazepam (Ativan) from Canada to Mexico?

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Last updated: April 14, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Traveling with lorazepam from Canada to Mexico is allowed for personal use, but it requires careful preparation and documentation, including carrying the original prescription and a letter from your doctor, as well as the medication in its original packaging with pharmacy labels intact. When traveling with prescription medications, especially controlled substances like lorazepam, it's essential to be aware of the regulations in both your home country and your destination country. According to a recent study on traveling with medications 1, it's crucial to bring extra medication and important documents, such as prescriptions and letters from your doctor, in case of an emergency.

Some key considerations when traveling with lorazepam include:

  • Carrying the original prescription and a letter from your doctor stating the medical necessity, diagnosis, dosage, and treatment duration
  • Bringing the medication in its original packaging with pharmacy labels intact
  • Only bringing the amount needed for your trip plus a small buffer for unexpected delays (typically no more than a 90-day supply)
  • Checking with the Mexican consulate or embassy before traveling for the most current regulations, as drug policies can change
  • Being aware that lorazepam is a controlled substance and subject to stricter regulations than non-controlled medications

A more recent study on international travel and medication 1 emphasizes the importance of packing sufficient medication in carry-on bags and using medication from the patient's home country to ensure authenticity. However, the most critical aspect of traveling with lorazepam is ensuring you have the proper documentation and following the regulations in place to avoid any issues with Mexican authorities.

From the Research

Traveling with Lorazepam in Mexico from Canada

  • There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies focus on the medical effects and uses of lorazepam, rather than its transportation or legality across international borders 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies provided discuss the effects of lorazepam on anxiety and addiction 2, its use in treating alcohol withdrawal syndrome 3, and its association with cancer patient survival outcomes 5, but do not address the issue of traveling with the medication.
  • To determine the regulations and requirements for traveling with lorazepam in Mexico from Canada, it is recommended to consult the official government websites or contact the relevant authorities, such as the Mexican government's tourism or health department, or the Canadian government's travel advisory department.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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