We sometimes receive requests from patients asking us to prescribe antibiotics to take abroad, with the intention of only using the antibiotics if the patient develops an infection.

We are unable to fulfil such requests as a matter of patient safety. It is not safe for us to anticipate the details of a potential infection you might develop abroad, as the best treatment will need to be tailored to the specific scenario.

Prescribing antibiotics in advance could lead to under treating an infection, or using the wrong antibiotic, which could be dangerous.

If you are in the unfortunate situation of requiring medical attention while you are outside of the UK, you will need to consult with a local medical service.