Can you send or post medicine to Thailand?
What happens when you post or courier medicine to Thailand, why controlled medicines must never be mailed, and safer alternatives.
Updated 13 November 2026
Do not post controlled medicines. This guide reflects official guidance as of 13 November 2026.
The short answer
- Narcotic and psychotropic medicines: never. Thai FDA guidance says importing them into Thailand by postal parcel is prohibited.
- Other medicines: parcels go through Thai customs and can be held for Thai FDA checks. Small personal quantities with a prescription have the best chance, but delivery is not guaranteed.
What happens to a parcel
Medicines sent from abroad are inspected like any other import. The Thai FDA says health products sent by mail must be for personal use, clearly labelled and within permitted quantities. Customs may hold a parcel until you show documents, ask you to get Thai FDA clearance, or refuse it.
People who order restricted medicines from abroad can face action from the Thai FDA or Customs if the parcel is found, according to the law firm Tilleke & Gibbins.
Safer alternatives
- Carry it yourself, within the 30-day limit and with your prescription. See bringing medicine into Thailand.
- Get it in Thailand. Many common medicines are available, often for less. See getting a prescription in Thailand.
- Use a licensed Thai telemedicine service if you need a repeat prescription delivered within Thailand.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.
Sources
- Thai FDA guidance for travellers (version 5, Sep 2024): postal parcels of narcotics and psychotropics prohibited
- TAT News: Thailand FDA guidelines for importing personal health products, including by mail (Nov 2024)
- Thai FDA: Importation of health products
- Tilleke & Gibbins: The dark side of online pharmacies