Pharmacies and Over-the-Counter Medicine

Pharmacies are everywhere in Brazilian cities. In many neighborhoods there is one on almost every block, some open around the clock. They sell medicine, of course, but also toiletries, sunscreen, snacks and household basics. For a newcomer, the main questions are what you can buy without a prescription, and how to ask.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. For anything more than a minor complaint, see a doctor. See Public vs private healthcare.

Reading the box

Anvisa, the health regulator, explains a simple visual rule:

• A red or black band on the packaging, with the words VENDA SOB PRESCRIÇÃO MÉDICA (sale under medical prescription), means the medicine needs a prescription.
• No band usually indicates a medicine that does not need a prescription, called a MIP, medicamento isento de prescrição.

Anvisa's page also points to its questions and answers on labeling for the other differences between packages. Whether a red or a black band changes what happens at the counter is a detail to check on the official page.

There is one catch Anvisa points out: some substances are sold without a prescription at lower strengths but need one at higher strengths. So the same name can be on the open shelf in one dose and behind the counter in another. Always read the box, not just the name.

Prescription medicines

For medicines that need a prescription, the pharmacist will ask for one from a doctor registered in Brasil. A US prescription is not a substitute. Plan your refills before you run out; see Bringing prescription medications.

Generics and similar products

Brazilian pharmacies sell brand-name medicines alongside generic versions, called genéricos. Ask the pharmacist whether there is a generic option for what you need, and compare the prices. How generics are labeled on the box is set by Anvisa; check the official page if you want the details.

How to ask

The pharmacist can help with minor complaints and with choosing between products on the shelf. A few phrases:

• Preciso de algo para dor de cabeça. (I need something for a headache.)
• Tem a versão genérica? (Is there a generic version?)
• Precisa de receita? (Does it need a prescription?)
• Sou alérgico a... / Sou alérgica a... (I am allergic to...)
• Quantas vezes por dia? (How many times a day?)

Bring the generic name of anything you take regularly. Brand names differ between countries, but active ingredients are the same. More phrases in Survival Portuguese.

Loyalty programs and your CPF

At the till, you will often be asked "CPF na nota?" or for your CPF to get a loyalty discount. Giving it is optional for most purchases, but discounts can be meaningful. If you do not have a CPF yet, see Getting a CPF.

Practical notes

• Keep a list. A note on your phone with the generic names and doses of your medicines and your allergies, in English and Portuguese.
• Ask about storage. Heat and humidity are hard on some products. Ask whether a medicine needs refrigeration.
• Do not self-medicate for long. If a minor complaint does not settle in a few days, see a doctor.

Checklist

1. Find the nearest pharmacy and one that is open late.
2. Learn to read the red and black bands.
3. Write down the generic names of your regular medicines.
4. See a local doctor before you need a Brazilian prescription.

Common questions

Can I buy a stronger dose without a prescription? Not always. Anvisa notes that some substances need a prescription at higher strengths. Read the box for the band.

Is the price the same everywhere? No. Prices vary between chains and neighborhoods, so it can pay to compare.

Mistakes to avoid

• Asking for a US brand name. The pharmacist will understand the active ingredient much faster.
• Assuming the same name means the same dose. Read the strength on the box.
• Running out of a regular medicine. A Brazilian prescription takes a doctor's appointment. Book it before the last week of your supply.
• Mixing products without asking. If you already take something, tell the pharmacist before you buy a cold or pain remedy.