We have an update from Marks Marine Pharmacy regarding importation of medications to the US. They said that the Oct. 22 implementation date for policy changes to Customs and Border Protection rules is not in place YET. They said that a petition is being circulated among pharmacies to try and stop this from happening and it may be only against medications coming from Canada. They suggested that anyone who does want to stock up, order by Oct. 8 and to be sure and ask for the latest expiration date available.
A tip from an AHC Parent is to have the pharmacy include this parent-written letter in all Flunarizine shipments to your child.
A letter to your child’s neurologist asking for help securing Flunarizine can be found here: https://flunarizineneurologistletter.tiiny.site
While importing unapproved drugs is generally prohibited, the FDA maintains a strict Personal Importation Policy Exception for Serious Conditions. Because Flunarizine treats a rare, severe condition with no commercial domestic alternative, it meets the criteria. [1, 2]
To safely bypass the automated October 2026 border blocks, your shipments must be explicitly documented to satisfy customs agents:
- The Package Paperwork:ย The outer packaging must include:
- A clear copy of your U.S. doctorโs prescription,
- A letter from the doctor explaining the rare diagnosis
- A statement that the drug is for personal use (maximum 90-day supply)
-
Avoid Standard International Post:ย Standard postal mail is the primary target of the October 2026 rule changes. Work with specialized international pharmacies or couriers (like DHL or FedEx) that handle formal customs clearance paperwork directly, rather than relying on national postal services. [1]
Since this is a fluid situation and not definite, we are sharing information so families can prepare.