Buying Lantus *in* Canada (as an American)?

[Cali S]

I have to travel to Canada for work next month and realize this might be a great opportunity to pick up some more insulin.

Has anyone bought insulin in Canada and brought it back across the border? Or just bought in person in Canada generally? Is this something that I just ask my closest pharmacy if they've got a lantus solostar pen and can I please get one?

TIA!

 

[Chris & China (GA)]

Has anyone bought insulin in Canada and brought it back across the border? Or just bought in person in Canada generally? Is this something that I just ask my closest pharmacy if they've got a lantus solostar pen and can I please get one?

You just walk in and ask for what you want. I'd suggest getting at least one 5 pack of Lantus solostar pens (or cartridges if they have them and you prefer them). No script required but you may need to tell them it's for your cat (but they may not care). People have been crossing the border to get insulin for years until Covid shut down the border but now that it's open, go for it! A 5 pack is a total of 1500 units which is enough to last most cats at least a year and some up to 2 years (depending on dose) but the actual box will have an expiration date on it that's usually at least 2 years away so you're good either way.

Customs doesn't care as long as it's only enough for personal use and you're not bringing back a case of it to re-sell in the US

 

[Wendy&Neko]

Yes, we've had people cross border shop for insulin for cats as well as for people. Don't forget to bring along a little container you can keep the insulin cool in. The Frio wallet is one such options. Taking my insulin into the US with my cat for treatment, I used a small insulated lunch box and a gel pack. I have both flown and driven with insulin and the cat. You might want to have a photocopy of the prescription, just in case. Not sure it's needed, but it doesn't hurt.