Whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway, a long-awaited family vacation, or a cross-country business trip, keeping your medications safe and effective while traveling is essential.
For patients who use compounded medications, a bit of extra preparation can make all the difference.
At Montana Apothecary and Compounding, we help patients across the U.S. plan ahead so their custom prescriptions stay potent, safe, and easy to manage—no matter where the road (or sky) takes them.
1. Plan Ahead — Start Early
Compounded prescriptions are made specifically for you, so they often take a little longer to prepare than off-the-shelf medications.
Before you travel:
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Request refills at least 1–2 weeks in advance.
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Confirm your travel dates with our team so we can coordinate shipping or pickup.
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Ask about stability—some compounded forms may require special handling or refrigeration.
If you’ll be away for an extended period, we can help schedule refills or coordinate delivery to your travel destination when appropriate.
2. Know How to Store Your Medications
Storage conditions can impact your medication’s potency. Here’s how to protect them:
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Avoid temperature extremes. Don’t leave medications in a hot car or in direct sunlight.
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Refrigerated medications: Keep them in a small cooler with a freezer pack during travel, but avoid direct contact with ice.
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Transdermal creams or gels: Store at room temperature and keep containers sealed tightly. Some of our dispensing devices are pressurized and cannot be taken on airplanes. If you are travelling by plane give us a call so our team can make the appropriate device change that suits your medication and application best.
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Liquids or suspensions: Shake gently before use, and check for changes in texture or odor.
If you’re unsure about your specific medication’s storage needs, ask our pharmacists—we’re happy to provide personalized guidance.
3. Keep Everything in Original Packaging
Always carry your medications in labeled pharmacy containers with your name, prescription number, and prescriber’s information. This helps:
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Avoid confusion or mix-ups
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Streamline airport security checks
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Ensure you’re compliant with state or international travel regulations
We can also provide travel-sized containers or extra labels upon request.
4. Flying? Pack Smart for TSA & Airport Travel
The TSA allows you to bring both prescription and over-the-counter medications in your carry-on luggage, even in liquid form.
A few helpful reminders:
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Keep medications easily accessible for screening.
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Declare liquid medications over 3.4 oz (100 mL) if requested.
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Bring a copy of your prescription or doctor’s note—especially for compounded items that may look unusual.
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Never pack essential meds in checked baggage—baggage delays or temperature changes can compromise them.
5. Traveling Across State Lines or Internationally
If you’re traveling within the U.S., you can safely carry your compounded medications as long as they are properly labeled and prescribed in your name.
For international travel:
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Check local import laws—some countries restrict certain prescription ingredients.
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Carry your medications in original containers and bring a copy of your prescription.
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Pack enough supply to last your entire trip plus a few extra days in case of delays.
Our team can help review your travel plans and confirm whether your medication’s ingredients have international restrictions.
6. Receiving Medications While Traveling
If you’ll be away for several weeks, we can coordinate shipment to your travel destination (within the U.S.).
We’ll verify that the medication’s shipping and storage conditions are safe for your location and timing.
Tip: Provide a reliable address (like a hotel front desk or trusted friend) and ensure someone can accept the package promptly.
7. When in Doubt, Ask Your Pharmacist
Traveling with medications doesn’t have to be stressful. At Montana Apothecary and Compounding, we’re here to help you plan ahead, pack safely, and stay consistent with your treatment—wherever life takes you.
If you’re planning a trip, contact our pharmacy team for personalized advice on:
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Stability and storage requirements
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Refill timing and travel documentation
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Delivery options while you’re away
Because your health doesn’t take a vacation—and neither do we.
Safe Travels from Montana Apothecary and Compounding
We’re proud to support patients across Montana and nationwide with custom compounded medications that fit their unique needs and lifestyles.
Have a trip coming up?
Reach out to us at Montana Apothecary and Compounding to plan your refills or shipping before you travel.
By: Amanda Beliveau CPhT, Lab Manager