Can I bring Robitussin DM to Korea?
Multi-ingredient product
Required사전 승인 필요
Robitussin DM requires prior approval from the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) before you travel.
Robitussin DM and its Maximum Strength version both contain dextromethorphan, a psychotropic substance in Korea. Bringing it in requires written MFDS approval. Korean pharmacies sell cough syrups over the counter, so buy locally instead of packing this one.
Ingredient by ingredient
A product follows its strictest ingredient. This is how each active ingredient stands in Korea:
| Ingredient | In Korea | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dextromethorphan HBr20 mg per 20 mL | Needs MFDS approval | A psychotropic substance in Korea (decree annex 6). Sets the verdict for the whole product. |
| Guaifenesin200 mg per 20 mL (400 mg in Maximum Strength) | OK | Not on Korea's controlled lists. |
Before you fly
- 1.Apply for the MFDS self-treatment permit at least 3 to 4 weeks before departure, online at nedrug.mfds.go.kr or by email to narcotics@korea.kr. Results are issued within 10 business days.
- 2.Prepare a passport copy, your flight itinerary, the prescription, and a doctor's note stating diagnosis and daily dose, in Korean or English. The permit covers up to a 90-day supply.
- 3.Pack the medication in its original packaging with the pharmacy label attached. Loose pills in an unmarked container invite questions you do not want at the border.
- 4.On arrival, take the goods-to-declare channel and show the permit with the medication.
Questions
Is any Robitussin variant free of dextromethorphan?
The DM line is not; the DM in the name is the dextromethorphan. Check your bottle's active ingredients, and treat anything listing dextromethorphan as needing MFDS approval in Korea.
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MedsToKorea is an independent site with no affiliation to the Korean government. Travel preparation only, not medical or legal advice. Regulations change: confirm with the MFDS, Korea Customs Service, or a Korean embassy before traveling. We store no searches and no health data.