Getting Prescriptions in Spain

Visiting Spain and need medication? Good news: tourists can obtain prescriptions after a valid consultation with a licensed doctor. either via online consultation or a house call. Below you’ll find what private doctors can prescribe, what pharmacies require, how antibiotics are handled, and the fastest way to get what you need today.

Private physicians in Spain may prescribe most acute and chronic medications after a clinical assessment, think antibiotics when appropriate, asthma inhalers, GI treatments, dermatology meds, contraception, and more. Prescriptions can be issued as a Spanish e-prescription (e-receta privada), dispensable at pharmacies nationwide, or as a compliant paper prescription. Short-term refills are often possible for travelers who have run out; bringing previous packaging or a doctor’s note helps.

Bring photo ID (passport for tourists; residents: DNI/NIE/TIE). With e-prescriptions, pharmacists retrieve your record digitally; with paper scripts, they verify the prescriber and medication. Expect to pay out-of-pocket unless your insurance covers outpatient medicines—keep your invoice for reimbursement.

Antibiotics are not sold over the counter. You’ll need a doctor’s evaluation and prescription. This protects your health and helps prevent antimicrobial resistance. If your symptoms suggest a bacterial infection, a private consult is the quickest way to be assessed and, if indicated, prescribed treatment.

While some foreign prescriptions may be recognized, pharmacies frequently prefer a Spanish prescription for clarity and availability. Non-EU scripts typically require re-issuance by a Spanish doctor. Book a quick consult to translate your documentation into a local prescription.

Spain’s public system is excellent, but access for short-term visitors can be slow or eligibility-dependent. Private care (video consults and house calls) offers speed, English-speaking support, and clear documentation for insurers—ideal when you’re traveling.

• Book a private consultation (video or house call).

• Share ID and any prior meds/records.

• Receive an e-prescription (or paper script).

• Collect medicines at any pharmacy; at night/weekends, ask for the farmacia de guardia (duty pharmacy).

✅ Online Consultation (English-speaking)
Talk to a doctor in minutes. Prescriptions issued electronically when appropriate.
Need a prescription in English? Start a consult.

🏠 Home Visit in Spain (major cities)
A licensed doctor comes to your hotel/apartment the same day. Prescriptions and documentation provided after assessment.
Request a home visit.