Bringing melatonin from the United States into Taiwan may be confiscated if the quantity exceeds the limit._1

In Taiwan, melatonin is classified as a prescription medication, which means travelers must adhere to specific regulations when bringing it into the country. The current rule allows each person to carry a maximum of 12 bottles. Those exceeding this limit must apply for a permit from the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), and violations could result in confiscation and fines.

Given the increasing sleep issues stemming from modern life’s stress and fast pace, melatonin has become a popular choice for improving sleep quality. In countries like the United States, melatonin is available over the counter in drugstores, making it easily accessible. However, many people from Taiwan, who often purchase melatonin while traveling abroad or ask friends to buy it, may not fully understand the regulations regarding what can be brought back home. This lack of awareness can lead to legal issues or inconvenience during customs checks.

In Taiwan, the regulations surrounding melatonin remain quite strict. The Ministry of Health and Welfare classifies it as a prescription drug, requiring individuals to have a doctor’s evaluation and prescription in order to obtain it. This regulation is primarily based on safety concerns, ensuring that consumers use the drug under the guidance of qualified health professionals.

According to the Taipei Customs Office of the Ministry of Finance, despite being an over-the-counter medication in many places, there are still strict limits on the quantity of melatonin that can be brought into Taiwan. Each traveler is allowed to bring in a total of up to 36 bottles, boxes, cans, or other containers of non-prescription medications, with a maximum of 12 of any single type. If travelers carry more than the permitted amount of melatonin or other over-the-counter drugs, they must apply for a relevant permit.

If individuals plan to bring in more than the limit, they need to request a “Personal Use Permits for Importation of Medicines” from the TFDA. This permit can be applied for online through the agency’s official platform. Upon entry, travelers must declare the extra medication to customs, and only after verification will they be allowed to bring in the excess quantity. Thus, it is advisable to handle this paperwork in advance to avoid unnecessary complications at the airport.

In addition to over-the-counter medications, specific restrictions also apply to prescription drugs. Travelers carrying prescriptions must either have the prescription or related documentation. Without a prescription, travelers can only bring a two-month supply. With a prescription, they can carry up to a six-month supply, provided it falls within the reasonable limits of the doctor’s instructions. Injectable medications also require a prescription or documented proof for customs clearance.

For controlled substances, regulations are even more stringent. These drugs can only be brought in for personal use and require a prescription or documentation, with quantities limited to what is prescribed and not exceeding a six-month supply. If travelers need to carry controlled substances, they must apply for a “Declaration for Carrying Controlled Substances into and out of the Republic of China” from the TFDA to ensure compliance at customs.

In summary, while melatonin is a common over-the-counter health supplement in many countries, Taiwan has explicit regulations for travelers trying to bring it into the country, particularly with strict limitations on quantity. When traveling abroad or having friends purchase such supplements, it is essential for travelers to fully understand these regulations to avoid complications caused by exceeding limits or failing to declare items.