Navigating Ecuador: Your Essential Guide to Managing Prescription Medications

The Foundation: Your Non-Negotiable Pre-Trip Checklist

1. The Golden Rule: Bring a Surplus, Not Just Enough Pack at least 30% more medication than your planned trip duration. For a 14-day trip, bring a 20-day supply.

2. Original, Labeled Containers Are Mandatory Keep everything in its original pharmacy-issued container with the prescription label intact.

3. Carry Both a Doctor's Note and a Digital Copy Have your doctor write a letter on official letterhead listing your medications, dosages, and the conditions they treat. Keep a physical copy with your passport and a digital photo on your phone.

4. Maintain a Detailed Medication List On a separate card in your wallet and in a note on your phone, list:

• Medication name (brand and generic)
• Dosage and frequency
• Purpose (e.g., "for high blood pressure")
• Your prescribing doctor’s name and emergency phone number
• Any critical allergies

5. All Medications Belong in Your Carry-On. Period. Never place essential medications in checked luggage.

On the Ground in Ecuador: Pharmacies, Doctors, and Local Nuances

1. Finding a Pharmacy (Farmacia) Pharmacies are marked by a green cross. The most reputable national chains are Fybeca and SanaSana. For after-hours emergencies, look for a sign on any pharmacy door indicating the location of the nearest farmacia de turno (pharmacy on duty).

2. Doctor Consultations and Prescriptions For minor issues, a consultation at a pharmacy's consultorio médico is efficient. A visit typically costs between $5 and $15 USD. To request an English-speaking doctor, say: "Necesito un médico que hable inglés, por favor." (I need a doctor who speaks English, please.)

3. The Reality of Replacing Prescriptions Certain controlled substances, particularly stimulants for ADHD like Adderall, are virtually impossible to obtain. If you rely on such a medication, bringing a full supply is non-negotiable.

High-Altitude Health: A Special Consideration for Cuenca & the Andes

Cuenca sits at 2,560 meters (8,400 feet). Cajas National Park's visitor center sits at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet).

• Acclimatize and Hydrate: Your first 24-48 hours in Cuenca should be relaxed. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol. Drink copious amounts of water. You can also try mate de coca (coca leaf tea).
• Ask a Pharmacist: For mild altitude sickness (soroche), ask: "¿Tiene algo para el soroche?" (Do you have something for altitude sickness?). They will likely offer Alteza or Sorojchi Pills.

Tour Guide's Preparation Checklist

• [ ] Doctor Consulted: Discussed travel plans, altitude, and medication stability with your physician.
• [ ] Doctor's Letter Secured: Obtained a signed letter listing all medications.
• [ ] Surplus Packed: Packed at least a 30% surplus of all essential medications.
• [ ] Original Packaging Confirmed: All meds are in their original, labeled pharmacy bottles.
• [ ] Carry-On Ready: All medications, prescriptions, and supplies are in your carry-on bag.
• [ ] Digital & Physical Lists Made: Created detailed medication lists accessible offline and in your wallet.
• [ ] Travel Insurance Verified: Confirmed your policy covers emergency medical care and prescription replacement.
• [ ] Altitude Plan in Place: Discussed altitude with your doctor and planned to acclimatize upon arrival.

⚠️ Guide's Safety Briefing: The Mistake I See Too Often

Do not assume your specific medication will be available in a local pharmacy if you run out. The process of matching a foreign prescription with local stock can be challenging and time-consuming. Always carry what you need for the day with you.

Conclusion: Travel with Confidence

By handling your medication logistics with precision, you free yourself to fully immerse in the wonders of Ecuador.