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Do You Need Prescriptions to Buy Meds in France?

Though it is possible to find a pharmacist who is both confident and knowledgeable enough to disregard regulations, France is generally restrictive when it comes to the distribution of medication. A number of drugs which are freely available in other countries, such as antibiotics, are strictly prescription drugs in France.

  1. What To Look For

    • If you're looking for a specific medicine, you would be best to visit one of the many local pharmacies. They are easily recognizable by the flashing green crosses that decorate the entrance-ways.

    Opening Hours

    • Pharmacies are typically open from Monday to Saturday, between 9:00AM to 8:00PM. Along with most things in France, pharmacies are typically closed on Sundays and public holidays, though it is possible in larger urban areas to find open pharmacies on these days. There will also always be at least one in each area that provides after-hours "service de garde" for late-night clients.

    Costs

    • Medicines in France tend to be cheaper than those of other European countries, due to state-imposed price restrictions.

    Reimbursements

    • For members of the French social security system, prescribed medicines will be partly reimbursed. The French government uses a color system for selective prescriptions, reimbursing 65 percent of the white-labeled meds and 35 percent for the blue. Those French citizens subscribed to the AME or Complimentary CMU will have all prescribed medicines paid for.

    Consult Your Pharmacist

    • Pharmacists in France are highly-trained, and each has undergone medical training requiring six years of university study. They are generally highly competent and helpful in providing treatment for many common illnesses and ailments. While certainly not a substitute for a doctor, should you be in an emergency situation, they can be a good place to start if you're sick

    If All Else Fails

    • Go from one pharmacy to the next. Your luck in purchasing a non-prescription med may be relative to each pharmacist's disposition on that day.

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