However, how can you avoid bringing an entire suitcase of medications?
In most countries, pharmacies sell all necessary medicines. We have compiled a list of essential medications for you to take on your trip. But the most important thing is to ensure you have good insurance
Food Poisoning/Intestinal Infection/Heatstroke
Glucose-saline solutions for oral rehydration
- For adults: Rehydron
- For children, one of the following medications: Adiarin Rehydrocomplex, Humana Electrolyte, Hydrovit, Biogaia, Rehydron Bio and etc.
Sorbents
- Smecta
Fever and Pain
Antipyretics and pain relievers based on paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Paracetamol
- Ibuprofen (syrup for children Nurofen)
Allergic Reactions and Severe Insect Bites (Skeeter Syndrome)
Second-generation antihistamines (for children in drops or syrup)
- One of the following medications: Zyrtec, Zodak
Lotions to relieve itching
- One of the following medications: Calamine, Tsindol, Fenistil
Contact/Diaper Dermatitis and Rash
- Hydrocortisone cream (1%) or other steroid creams (Advantan)
- Zinc cream
Wounds, Cuts, and Burns
- Plasters, elastic bandages, gauze pads, hemostatic sponge, BF glue (super handy)
- Tourniquet, scissors, tick remover, tweezers, digital thermometer
- Burn gel with antiseptic and anesthetic (Apollo)
- Cooling gels with aloe, Panthenol (foam)
- Sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher
- Antibacterial ointment/powder, one of the following: Bactroban, Bonderm, Supirocin
- Local antiseptics for wounds: Miramistin, Chlorhexidine + hand sanitizers
Conjunctivitis
- Anti-inflammatory eye drops for conjunctivitis/eye injuries, one of the following: Tobrex, Vitabact
- Artificial tears drops
Insect and tick repellents
If necessary
- Nebulizer for obstructions and necessary medications
- Motion sickness medications for children 3 years and older
- Microlax/glycerin suppositories for acute constipation
- Epinephrine injector (EpiPen) for anaphylaxis history
- Saline solution for nasal rinsing if needed
- Decongestant drops for sudden congestion and during flights (no more than 3 days)
Don't forget your usual medications for chronic conditions!
We've compiled a comprehensive but smart first aid kit. Depending on the conditions and the distance of your travels, this list can be reduced.
Photo by Steven Thompson on Unsplash
