New Prescription Regulations for Saudi Arabia
As from the 1st November, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) require advance registration for certain drugs for all travellers arriving in or departing from the Kingdom.
This includes, but is not limited to, some common pain, anxiety, and ADHD medication.
Under the new rule, all travellers to the Kingdon are required to obtain an electronic clearance from the SFDA for certain listed medications. Clearance must be obtained online in advance of arrival, and prior to departure.
A complete list of the relevant medications can be found here on the SFDA website.
Clearance requests should be submitted via the Controlled Drug System.
The list includes many drugs commonly used in the UK, US, and elsewhere, including the following
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Codeine containing medications
- Pregabalin (Lyrica)
- Tramadol (Ultram)
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Equasym)
- Zolpidem (Stilnoct, Ambien)
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Amphetamine/Dextroamphetamine (Adderall)
- Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen (Vicodin, Norco)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)