Pharmacies and Medicine

Health & Wellness

Pharmacies (farmacias) in the Algarve are well-stocked, professionally staffed and play a more prominent role in primary healthcare than pharmacies in some other European countries. Portuguese pharmacists are trained to provide advice, recommend treatments and dispense a range of medications, making the pharmacy a first port of call for many minor health concerns.

Pharmacies in the Algarve are identified by a green cross sign, often illuminated and sometimes flashing. They are found in every town and in many larger villages. In tourist areas, pharmacies are typically easy to find in town centres and shopping areas. The larger towns (Faro, Lagos, Portimao, Albufeira, Tavira, Loule) have multiple pharmacies.

Standard pharmacy opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 13:00 and 15:00 to 19:00, and Saturday mornings. However, a rotating duty system (farmacia de servico or farmacia de turno) ensures that at least one pharmacy in each area is open outside normal hours, including nights, Sundays and public holidays. The duty pharmacy schedule is posted on the door of each pharmacy and published in local newspapers and online.

Many common medications that require a prescription in other European countries are available over the counter in Portugal. Pharmacists can advise on and dispense treatments for conditions including minor infections, pain relief, digestive complaints, allergies, skin conditions and travel-related health issues. However, some medications, including antibiotics, strong painkillers and certain specialist drugs, require a prescription (receita medica) from a Portuguese doctor.

If you take regular prescription medication, bring a sufficient supply for your stay, along with a letter from your doctor listing the medications by their generic (non-brand) names. Portuguese pharmacies stock the same active ingredients as pharmacies elsewhere in Europe, but brand names may differ. A pharmacist can help identify the Portuguese equivalent of your regular medication.

Common items available at Algarve pharmacies include sunscreen, insect repellent, after-sun treatments, rehydration salts, antihistamines, pain relief, cold and flu remedies, digestive medicines, first aid supplies and basic medical devices such as blood pressure monitors and thermometers.

Prices for medications in Portugal are generally lower than in northern Europe, as the Portuguese government regulates pharmaceutical pricing. Many pharmacies accept payment by card as well as cash.

For more serious health concerns or conditions requiring a doctor's examination, pharmacists can refer you to local medical services. Many pharmacies have working relationships with nearby doctors' surgeries and can help arrange appointments. In genuinely urgent situations, go directly to the urgencias (emergency department) at the nearest hospital or call 112.