Did you buy some over-the-counter Viagra in the United Kingdom? You’re probably best advised to use it up during your travels rather than risk having it confiscated upon your return to the United States.

Regulatory authorities in the United Kingdom broke new ground in late 2017 when they approved over-the-counter sales of Viagra. The OTC version of the little blue pill, branded Viagra Connect, actually became available to U.K. consumers during the spring of 2018.

The ready availability of this medication, sold only by prescription in the United States, raises some interesting questions for American visitors to the United Kingdom. Can they bring back these drugs to the United States without fear that customs authorities will seize the medications as illegal contraband? Or could someone carrying Viagra Connect, legal in the U.K. but not available as such in the United States, even be charged with a crime?

Contradictory Advice

In view of somewhat contradictory advice from U.S. regulatory agencies, it’s probably not a good idea to try to return to this country with OTC versions of a drug that’s available only by prescription in the United States.

However, a great deal depends on the customs agent who questions you upon your return to the United States. If he or she is in an expansive mood, chances are good you’ll get cleared without any problem. However, if the agent is having a harried day and in a surly mood, the drugs you’re carrying might very well be seized.

What Customs Says

U.S. Customs and Border Protection seems to take a somewhat inexact view on the importation of OTC medications on its website. It notes that “nonprescription medicines (also known as over-the-counter or OTC medicines), vitamins, herbs, and supplement products fall under the jurisdiction of the Food and Drug Administration.” It points out that “in general FDA will not object to the personal importation of those products as long as the traveler is carrying the products in their possession (or in their luggage).” Another condition is that the amount being carried be consistent with personal use.

The uncertainties in the CBP statement focus on the interpretation of “OTC medicines.” While Viagra Connect is clearly approved for OTC sales in the United Kingdom, it is not available in the United States in that form.

FDA Policies Also Confusing

Additional warning signs can be found at the FDA web page spelling out the agency’s policies governing “personal importation.” The FDA notes that “In most circumstances, it is illegal for individuals to import drugs or devices into the U.S. for personal use because these products purchased from other countries often have not been approved by FDA for use and sale in the U.S.” While it’s true that the FDA has approved Viagra for use in the United States, it requires a prescription to purchase that drug.

Unless you’re willing to risk Customs confiscation of your OTC Viagra from the United Kingdom, you’re probably better off buying the drug or its generic equivalent in the United States.

If the convenience of ordering Viagra or sildenafil citrate online appeals to you, check out all the services available from longtime online facilitator eDrugstore.com. It stocks all brand-name ED drugs, as well as the generic equivalents of Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. To learn more, visit its Erectile Dysfunction page.