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Prescriptions east coast of South America

Last activity 02 December 2024 by OsageArcher

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PKristinaCampoH

Greetings,

I have questions about getting prescriptions in South America.

I have been doing some research.

In one case, a telemedicine doctor service can prescribe and you are directed to pick up the prescription at an airport pharmacy.


In another case, personally, I have obtained prescription drugs over the counter in Mexico.

First, I brought my prescription from the US.

I showed it to the doctor in an office connected to the pharmacy (away from the border).

He wrote my prescriptions.

I went to the pharmacy. The pharmacist asked me, “How much do you want?”

I said, “How much is on the prescription?”

He said, “There is no amount, it depends upon how much money you have.”

Later, I learned that I don’t even need a prescription from a doctor at some pharmacies.

I returned to the one that I was familiar with.

I carried my American prescription and the original Mexican prescriptions with me over the border.

Border patrol told me, “We don’t care about you buying prescriptions in Mexico, but the American side might [confiscate them].”

I never had a problem, but maybe that’s because I am old and look like I need them.


Are there cases similar to either of those in Argentina?


Thank you for your consideration. I take two very specific medications.

Kristina

OsageArcher

The short answer to your question is yes, there are similar cases in Argentina.


In general in most South American countries the same drugs are available, often without as strict requirements.  But if it is a prescription drug you may still need a prescription written by a doctor - often requiring just an office visit and showing the doctor your old prescription, or discussing your needs.


The names of the drugs are often different.  So it is helpful to know how it is called in Spanish.  An internet search is helpful for that, just something like

amlodipine in spanish


Here is a site which lists and gives prices of various drugs in Argentina.  Enter the Spanish name and it will show prices, quantities, and dosages for the desired drug:


https://preciosderemedios.ar/

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