Travel to Mexico

[BuckeyeFan]

I may be traveling to Mexico for work quite often starting in the fall (from the US). Has anyone had any experience with traveling to Mexico as far as epilepsy is concerned. I will be discussing with my Neuro before I go, but any insight any of you can provide is appreciated.

I do have two meds I will need to take with me, phenytek and lamictal. Generally traveling via commercial air to a very safe part of Mexico.

Thanks all.

 

[Nakamova]

I went on a sightseeing trip to Mexico a few years back. There were no issues with my medication. I didn't have to replace any of it while I was there, so I don't know how smoothly that process might work. I do carry a note from my neurologist in my passport that explains why I have epilepsy medication.

One person in my tour group fell and needed emergency attention in the small town we were in. She got excellent care in the tiny local hospital. She paid out of pocket for X-rays and the overnight stay, and it was very inexpensive compared to the many thousands we'd pay in the states.

My bags were searched at the airport when I left, and they made me demonstrate that my camera was a real camera -- but I think that had more to do with me looking like a possible drug courier, and nothing to do with epilepsy or my E meds.

 

[Chris515]

Same experience for me.. I was in Cozumel last year and had no problems getting in and out with my meds. I didn't need to see a doctor at all though so I'm not sure how that works.

As for the meds I think if the drug sniffing dogs at the airport weren't concerned, then they weren't going to bother checking..

 

[PFunk]

I went there a few years back for my honeymoon. I kept my pills in their prescription bottles on my carry one. Security didn't care about them.

I don't know if you will be driving anywhere. My wife and I drove around the Yucatan to check out the Mayan ruins. When you cross into another state, there is usually a check point with armed guards. Again, they seemed to pay little mind to our possessions and just laughed at us. I guess when two Americans who don't speak Spanish, pull up with their passports held out and giant smiles, you can't help but laugh.

One other thing, see what your health insurance covers when you're out of the country. You could change parts of your policy so if (god forbid) something were to happen you wouldn't be paying out you a_s in medical fees

 

[Bluesbrkr]

I've gone a few times for business, and taken my meds (lamictal and trileptal) both in my carry on, and extra in my checked, and never had any problems. My trips were to Mexico City. I would definitely check with your insurance on your coverage out of the country, and make sure to take some extra, just in case you end up having to stay longer than expected. And as always... don't drink the water!!! (or eat fruit or vegetables grown in country...)

 

[BuckeyeFan]

Thanks for the replies everyone. Luckily, my company does extend medical coverage while we travel and will even have a network of approved medical facilities if needed. Good thoughts on meds in both the carry-on and checked luggage.

Sounds like I may be spending half my time there for about 6 months and then maybe 25% for the 12 months after that.

 

[little fruitcake]

I go to Mexico several times a year, as a matter of fact I went just a couple of weeks ago. I also carry my meds in their prescription bottles. I have had no trouble at all. The hospitals there have always been muy bueno!

 

[RobinN]

I have visited San Luis Potosi, and it is lovely there. My friend has excellent doctors. More informed and enlightened than many I have met in the U.S.
If you need a name of a neurologist, I can get it for you. It might be in Mexico City... not sure.

 

[BuckeyeFan]

I will be traveling to a city called Queretaro. It is about 150 miles north of Mexico City. I was there for just one night a few years ago. Beautiful, old, historic city.