Running out of a medication 300 miles from home is no fun at all. A few minutes of planning before you leave avoids it.
Before You Go
- Count what you have. Make sure you have enough for the whole trip plus a few extra days in case of delays.
- Refill early if you need to. If your refill isn't due yet, ask us. Many insurance plans allow an early "vacation supply." We'll check what your plan allows.
- Line up your refills. If you take several medications, we can sync them to one refill day, so nothing runs out mid-trip.
- Make a medication list. Write down the name, strength and dose, plus your prescriber's and pharmacy's phone numbers. Keep a copy in your wallet or on your phone.
Packing
- Keep medications in your carry-on, never in checked bags.
- Keep them in their original labeled containers, especially controlled medications.
- Liquids and gels you need medically can go over the usual 3.4-ounce limit. Tell the TSA officer at screening.
- Insulin and other refrigerated medications: pack a small cooler bag with ice packs. Ask us how long yours can stay at room temperature.
- Pill organizers are handy, but bring the labeled bottles too.
On the Trip
- Crossing time zones? Ask the pharmacist how to time doses, especially for insulin, blood thinners and birth control.
- Forgot something? Call us. If your prescription allows it, another pharmacy where you are can often call us to transfer a refill.
At Healarian Pharmacy
Call or text 212-317-0828 a few days before you leave and tell us your travel dates. We'll check your refills and your plan's rules. If you live in ZIP 10128, we can deliver your medications free the same day before you go.
Thanksgiving hours: we are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, and open our normal hours on Friday, November 27. If you need a refill for the long weekend, call it in by Wednesday.
Related: 5 tips to never run out of your medication and free same-day delivery in ZIP 10128.
Zimo Wahdan, RPh, Owner & Pharmacist, Healarian Pharmacy