Prescription Medications and Pharmacies in Portugal

Moving to a new country can be a thrilling adventure, but it also comes with practical concerns like healthcare, particularly access to prescription medications. If you're an expat or digital nomad living in or moving to Portugal, here's what you need to know about the availability of prescription medications. ##

Pharmacies in Portugal: What to Expect

Pharmacies, known as 'farmácias' in Portuguese, are widely available in Portugal. They are typically small, privately owned businesses, often marked with a green cross. This is where you would typically purchase prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter drugs and basic health and beauty products.

Prescriptions in Portugal

In Portugal, many medications require a prescription from a doctor. This is especially true for stronger medications, antibiotics, and controlled substances. However, some medications that require a prescription in other countries may be available over the counter in Portugal. If you're unsure, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Cost of Prescription Medications in Portugal

Portugal has a public healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), which subsidizes the cost of many medications for residents. This means that prescription medications can be quite affordable, especially when compared to countries like the United States. However, the exact cost will depend on the specific medication and your personal healthcare coverage.

Important Considerations for Expats and Digital Nomads

If you're new to Portugal, it's important to register with a local health center and get a health card. This will give you access to the public healthcare system and the subsidized medication prices. If you have private health insurance, make sure to check your policy to understand what's covered.

It's also a good idea to bring a supply of your regular medications with you when you move, just in case there are any delays in getting a prescription or accessing healthcare. Always keep medications in their original, labeled containers to avoid any issues at customs.

Language Barrier in Portugal's Pharmacies

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, there may be a language barrier in some pharmacies, especially in less touristy or rural areas. It can be helpful to learn some basic Portuguese phrases, or write down the name of the medication you need to avoid any confusion.

Online Pharmacies in Portugal

Online pharmacies are becoming more common in Portugal, offering a convenient way to order medications. However, it's important to ensure that you're using a reputable site. Always check that the pharmacy is registered with INFARMED, the Portuguese regulatory authority for medicines and health products.

Expats Talk About Prescriptions in Portugal

"I have a few rx that I need. We took out private insurance and I brought my Dr. records with me when I met my primary care Dr. He looked them over and said they were not a problem. One rx is $50 cheaper here than the states," commented one member living in Albufeira, Portugal.

"You can usually get them over the counter, some are very expensive but if you get the right prescription with number of EHIC on it it will cost 1/4 of the total amount (in my case-Xarelto)," mentioned one expat living in Portugal.

"Prescription medicines are dispensed by the local pharmacy, as prescribed by the doctor at the local clinic near my home. The prescriptions are sent via message directly from the doctor to the pharmacy. The one time I've had to get medication, I was prescribed 3 meds for a total of less of than 7 euros, which is cheaper than it would've been in Canada," said an expat in Portugal.

"Pharmacies are numerous in each major city and at least one exists in the smaller towns. Using a list from our US physicians of regularly taken medications, the pharmacies here continue to dispense this medication. Costs are at least one half less than in the US, and with some scrips can be about a tenth of the cost in the US. Pharmacists will also listen to customer health complaints and offer medication that would have required a doctor visit in the US, such as some allergy medications, cold, muscle pain, stomach ailments, headaches," remarked one expat in Portugal.