slewts

Hi, we are emigrating to Abu Dhabi towards the end of August, and bringing my sister in law with us for 2 weeks whilst we settle in with our two children. I've just found out she is taking Codeine for a back / leg injury and needs to continue to take this. I know Codeine is a banned substance in the UAE, but just wondered if anyone knew if having a prescription from your GP would be OK to bring it in to the country?

Thanks
Sarah

Jim Smith

I do not know the answer to your question. But check it very carefully as codeine has been a big problem in the past and put people in jail awaiting a trial.

auzdafluff

As I understand it, they couldn't care less if a doctor in western country or otherwise prescribed it, it's illegal.

The Dean

Correct - it is regarded as a narcotic out here.

There are legal alternatives - tell them to check with their GP.

Patsy Stoned

I definately won't risk it, she needs to bring an alternative. What about Voltran?

Boomhauer

I have doctor (here in the US) prescribed hydrocodone, it's the only thing that works for severe pain relief.
Hydrocodone is stronger than Codeine (for pain relief), is it also banned in the UAE ?

slewts

Thanks all, just checked with her and she can't take voltarol / voltran but is going to check with her GP for an alternative.

Bluelionesse

full list and advice here

http://www.fairtrials.net/press/arti...stances_in_uae

ctfc

Yes, you can bring it. However, you need a notarized doctors letter in both English and Arabic and I would recommend you also get it stamped by the UAE Embassy.

Codeine is metabolized by the liver into morphine, so any blood test in the event of an accident or any trouble at all with police (very unlikely, but life can be a little unpredictable here, and things spiral very quickly out of control) would show up as morphine, which is big trouble, instant minimum 4 years in prison with no appeal.

Given the amount of trouble to do all this, it would be much better to find a legal alternative, though make sure you check that with the UAE Embassy also - the online resources are not always up to date.

Patsy Stoned

have you finished your conference call darling????

ctfc

Only just! Party looked like a lot of fun, but I was on the phone to Houston half the evening

Patsy Stoned

Next time then sweetie xx

Blue Cat

I am taking Ponstan for back pain, it's good, mix it with brufen and vodka for desired results

Spugsy

If it's just for her pain tell her to take nothing on the plane and get something here, the pharmacist will give her something strong.

sueffun

My aunt is travelling on Emmirates from the UK to South Africa in September, there is a two hour stop over at the airport. She has many orthopedic problems and will be in a wheelchair, would the same rules apply to her if any of her meds have these ingredients in, because now I'm worried.
My husband said not to take any notice.