Andorra – Prescriptions and Medications

What are pharmacies called in Andorra, and how do I recognise one?

In Andorra’s official language of Catalan, a pharmacy is known as a farmàcia, with the plural form being farmàcies. You will encounter this term on signage across the principality. In everyday speech, especially in tourist zones, people sometimes use the Spanish-derived word farmacia instead.

Identifying a pharmacy in Andorra is easy: look for a green cross sign, typically illuminated, mounted outside the premises. This symbol is standard throughout much of continental Europe, so anyone accustomed to pharmacy signage in France, Spain, or Italy will find it instantly familiar. The cross may appear in green or white depending on the specific establishment.

Pharmacies are spread across all of Andorra’s parishes and tend to be small, independently operated businesses. Some premises also carry the label parafarmàcia, signalling that they offer a wider selection of health, beauty, and wellness items beyond standard prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

Andorra has one of the highest pharmacy-to-population ratios in Europe, with roughly 50 pharmacies operating throughout the Principat de les Valls d’Andorra. Even residents of the smaller parishes will generally find one nearby. A distinct category also exists in the form of specialised pharmacies, which either focus on a particular therapeutic area or employ a pharmacist with advanced training in a specific field — for instance, respiratory conditions, or the sourcing and importation of foreign pharmaceutical products.

Pharmacists practising in Andorra are licensed by the government and are authorised to dispense approved foreign medications supplied by pharmaceutical companies that hold agreements with the Ministry of Health and Welfare. This matters for expats because Andorra is not an EU member state and manages its own approved medicines list independently — although, given its geographical position between France and Spain, that list draws substantially from both neighbouring countries’ pharmaceutical frameworks.

What are pharmacy opening hours in Andorra?

The majority of Andorran pharmacies operate a split-hours schedule, opening from approximately 9:30am to 1:30pm and again from 4:30pm to 8pm, Monday through Saturday. This midday closure — known locally as a pausa — is a common feature of commercial life in Andorra and in the broader Iberian tradition. Anyone used to continuous trading hours in their home country should factor this into their plans when they need to visit a pharmacy.

Hours do vary from one pharmacy to another. Certain larger operations, such as the Farmacia Galeno chain, offer extended weekday hours from 9:00am to 8:30pm and remain open until 9:00pm at weekends, making them more accessible to a wider range of customers. The Farmacia Pasteur chain operates on a similarly broad schedule, generally between 9:00am and 9:00pm. Pharmacies situated in busier commercial and tourist districts — especially in Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany — tend to keep longer hours than those in quieter parishes.

Most pharmacies close on Sundays and public holidays, but access to medicines is never completely cut off. A duty pharmacy system (farmàcia de guàrdia) ensures that at least one outlet is available for urgent needs at all times. A small number of pharmacies also operate around the clock and are usually identifiable by a red indicator light outside.

The Ministry of Health and Welfare publishes a regularly updated PDF listing pharmacies, their addresses, opening times, and holiday schedules. The Servei Andorrà de Salut (SAS) website carries the current duty pharmacy rota. Bookmarking this page shortly after your arrival is a sensible precaution, so you have it to hand should you need medication outside of normal business hours.

Which medications can I buy over the counter in Andorra, and which require a prescription?

A range of everyday medicines can be purchased in Andorra without a prescription. These include common analgesics such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, antihistamines, antacids, throat lozenges, and basic wound care supplies, all of which are available directly from the pharmacy counter without the need for a prior medical consultation.

Despite what some older information may suggest, antibiotics cannot be purchased over the counter in Andorra. Alongside many other categories of medicine, they require a valid prescription from a doctor. This represents an important distinction for anyone accustomed to systems where antibiotics or similar drugs are more freely available — Andorra has aligned its approach with broader European principles of responsible antimicrobial use, and this is firmly enforced.

The rules governing which medicines can be sold freely and which require authorisation differ from those in other countries. Some products that need a prescription elsewhere may be dispensed without one in Andorra, while certain items readily available in other markets may require a doctor’s sign-off here. Rather than relying on assumptions based on experience in another country, it is always advisable to ask the pharmacist directly about any medicine you are unsure about.

Pharmaceutical safety standards in Andorra are regulated by the Ministry of Health, which oversees both publicly dispensed and privately purchased medicines. For an up-to-date list of approved and regulated medications, consult the official SAS website.

Online purchasing of medicines is possible in Andorra, but should only be done through verified and licensed sources. Some pharmacies offer ordering and home delivery services, and these are a practical option for over-the-counter and para-pharmacy products. The same legal obligations that apply in store also apply online for prescription medicines — a valid prescription remains necessary — so the digital route is most useful for OTC items. Always confirm that any online pharmacy you use holds a legitimate licence to operate in Andorra.

How does the prescription system work in Andorra?

Prescriptions in Andorra are issued by registered medical practitioners, including general practitioners working within the public Servei Andorrà de Salut (SAS) network as well as private doctors. Specialists may also prescribe directly for conditions within their area of expertise — in contrast to certain systems, such as the NHS in England, where specialist-initiated prescriptions are sometimes redirected through the patient’s GP before being dispensed.

Once a prescription has been issued, the patient takes it to any licensed pharmacy, where the pharmacist verifies its validity before dispensing the medication. Andorra’s outpatient prescription system is largely paper-based at present, though electronic systems are being developed as part of the country’s ongoing efforts to modernise its healthcare infrastructure.

Patients managing chronic or long-term conditions can obtain repeat prescriptions, although these are not automatically renewed without any oversight. Periodic reviews with the prescribing doctor are typically required — broadly in line with how repeat prescribing functions across much of Europe — meaning that regular patients can usually obtain ongoing supplies without a full consultation each time, provided their condition remains stable. When beginning any long-term treatment, it is worth confirming the prescription’s validity period and the renewal process with your doctor.

When consulting a doctor, patients receive a stamped form and receipts documenting their care. Reimbursement claims are submitted in person at a local CASS office, with all supporting paperwork, and repayments are made by bank transfer. This upfront-payment-then-reimbursement model is familiar to those who have lived in France or parts of Southern Europe, but differs significantly from systems such as the NHS, where patients pay only a fixed dispensing fee — or nothing at all — at the point of collection.

How much do prescriptions and medications cost in Andorra?

Within the public system, patients pay a share of their prescription costs at the pharmacy, with the balance reimbursed through the social security fund. Andorra does not apply a single flat dispensing fee in the way that England’s NHS does. Instead, patients pay the full price at the counter and subsequently submit a claim to CASS to recover a proportion of the expenditure.

CASS members receive reimbursement of approximately 75% of outpatient medical costs and 90% of hospital-related costs. In practical terms, a registered contributor will pay roughly 25% of a prescription’s cost out of pocket at the pharmacy, then reclaim the remainder through the formal claims process. It is advisable to verify current reimbursement rates directly with CASS, as these figures are subject to revision.

Although the social security system funds a significant portion of healthcare expenditure, patients may still face some out-of-pocket costs — for example, when attending private specialists or requesting consultations outside the public network. These co-payments tend to be modest by international standards. For expats who require regular medication for ongoing conditions, however, the cumulative impact of out-of-pocket spending can be considerable, reinforcing the importance of appropriate insurance cover.

Prescription medication prices in Andorra vary considerably by product. In general, costs are not as steep as in several other European countries, and Andorra’s low-tax status means that some over-the-counter items may be priced more competitively than equivalent products across the border in France or Spain. For specific pricing on a given medication, enquire directly with a local pharmacy or consult the SAS website.

Residents who are not in employment may opt into CASS voluntarily by paying a monthly contribution of approximately €200 to €400 (as of 2025 — current contribution bands should be confirmed at cass.ad). This arrangement allows people outside formal employment to still benefit from CASS reimbursements, including for prescription medicines. Those who are not Andorran residents, or who fall outside the CASS framework entirely, will be charged the full market price for all medicines with no state subsidy applied.

Will my home-country prescription be accepted in Andorra?

Because Andorra is not a member of the European Union, the cross-border prescription recognition rules that apply between EU member states do not extend to the principality. A prescription issued in another country carries no automatic right to be dispensed at an Andorran pharmacy. In practice, pharmacists may exercise professional judgement when presented with a clearly valid prescription for a straightforward medication, but there is no guarantee of acceptance.

If you arrive with a prescription from abroad, having it translated into Catalan — Andorra’s official language — is strongly advisable, as this reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or a pharmacist being unable to process the document. A translation into Spanish may also help, given the widespread use of that language among pharmacy staff.

The most dependable course of action for expats who arrive with ongoing medication requirements is to register with a local GP at the earliest opportunity and request an Andorran prescription. Bring your original prescription documents, your medication packaging, and a summary of your medical history to the appointment. A local doctor who can review your existing documentation will typically be able to issue a locally valid prescription without requiring you to undergo a new diagnostic process from scratch.

Before you move, it is sensible to bring a sufficient supply of your regular medicines to cover the transition period while you register with a doctor and obtain new prescriptions. Bear in mind that not every medication available in your home country will necessarily be licensed or stocked in Andorra. This is especially relevant for branded products that may be sold under different names in other markets, or that have not received approval through the Andorran regulatory framework at all. Checking availability in advance is a worthwhile precaution.

Can I bring my medications into Andorra?

As an independent principality situated between France and Spain, Andorra operates its own customs arrangements and is not part of the EU customs union. Medications brought across the border are therefore subject to Andorran border controls. Import rules can change, so it is always sensible to confirm the current requirements with the Andorran government or your nearest Andorran consulate before you travel.

When travelling to Andorra with medicines, keeping them in their original, clearly labelled packaging and carrying a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor is essential. This documentation significantly reduces the risk of difficulties at customs. Medications stored in unmarked containers or transferred into generic pill organisers without supporting paperwork are far more likely to be questioned by border officials.

Before travelling, check with your local embassy or consulate regarding specific allowances and any restrictions in force. For controlled substances — such as opioid painkillers, certain anxiolytics, or potent sleep medications — the requirements are stricter, and a signed letter from your prescribing doctor alongside a copy of the prescription is typically recommended. Such documentation should ideally be kept in your hand luggage for ease of access during border checks.

It is important to be aware that a medication considered routine in one country may be classified as a controlled or restricted substance under Andorran law. Contacting Andorra’s consular representatives to confirm that your prescribed medicines are legal to import is a sensible precaution. A doctor’s letter explaining your medical condition, the medication name, dosage, and duration of treatment is considered international best practice for any traveller carrying prescription medicines and offers meaningful protection at the border.

When it comes to quantities, carry enough to meet your immediate needs along with a reasonable buffer in case of travel delays, but avoid transporting very large amounts of any single medication — particularly controlled substances — as this may prompt scrutiny regardless of the documentation you hold. Always review the latest official guidance at Duana d’Andorra (Andorran Customs) before departure.

How do expats access prescription medications through health insurance in Andorra?

Foreign nationals living in Andorra who are in employment or operating as self-employed individuals are generally required to contribute to the CASS social security system and, in return, become entitled to healthcare benefits — including subsidised prescription coverage — under the public framework. Those who are not working will typically need to arrange private health insurance to ensure adequate cover.

It is strongly recommended that all residents hold insurance that includes medication costs. The Caixa Andorrana de Seguretat Social (CASS) provides coverage for prescription medicines for all registered, contributing members. The system functions similarly to social insurance models in France or Germany: contributions are made by both employee and employer, and the fund reimburses a defined proportion of eligible healthcare expenses, including dispensed prescriptions.

Employees contribute between 6% and 9% of their salary, while employers pay 15.5% in social security contributions. (Rates as of 2025 — always verify the current figures at cass.ad.) In return, CASS members benefit from reimbursements on both medical appointments and prescription costs, making contributions an effective means of subsidising drug expenditure for working residents and their registered dependants.

Although the public system provides broad coverage, private health insurance remains common among residents who prefer to use private healthcare providers or wish to avoid waiting times within the public network. A private policy can also help to offset medication costs in private healthcare settings. Comprehensive international health insurance or locally licensed private policies typically include prescription drug cover as part of their standard or enhanced tiers, helping non-CASS members manage their out-of-pocket pharmaceutical expenses.

One point that catches many newcomers off guard: the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides no coverage for medical expenses incurred in Andorra. Since Andorra falls outside the EU, EHIC and comparable European reciprocal healthcare arrangements do not apply here. Expats who arrive without either CASS registration or private insurance will bear the entire cost of all medications and medical treatment themselves, with no state subsidy or reciprocal arrangement to fall back on.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I run out of my regular medication in Andorra?

If you exhaust your supply of a prescription medicine, seek an appointment with a local GP as promptly as possible and bring any remaining packaging or documentation relating to your original prescription. For urgent needs, Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell offers round-the-clock emergency care and is equipped to assist with acute medication requirements. Outside of normal pharmacy hours, the duty pharmacy system (farmàcia de guàrdia) ensures that at least one outlet is always available for emergency dispensing.

Are brand-name medications available in Andorra?

Government-licensed pharmacists in Andorra are authorised to dispense approved foreign medicines from pharmaceutical companies holding agreements with the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Both branded and generic versions of many frequently used drugs are stocked. That said, not every brand available in your home country will necessarily be carried — if you depend on a particular formulation or brand, check its availability in advance and ask your pharmacist whether a therapeutically equivalent alternative exists.

Can I find a pharmacist who speaks languages other than Catalan?

Andorra is a genuinely multilingual society, and a large proportion of pharmacists are fluent in both Spanish and French, with a number also able to assist in English. In high-traffic areas such as Andorra la Vella and popular ski resort locations like Grandvalira, multilingual staff are particularly common. Many pharmacies can also be reached via WhatsApp, email, or an online contact form, making it possible to communicate in writing before visiting in person — a practical option for those who prefer to check details in advance.

What happens in a medical emergency — can I get medication quickly?

Andorra’s emergency medical infrastructure is well developed, encompassing ambulance services and dedicated emergency response teams. Urgent care is provided at Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell and other healthcare facilities. In a genuine emergency, hospital staff can administer necessary medication without the patient holding a pre-existing prescription. Having your medical history and any relevant details readily accessible will help healthcare professionals respond quickly and accurately.

Do Andorran pharmacies sell medications that are only available on prescription elsewhere?

While many medicines in Andorra require a local doctor’s prescription, some products that are prescription-only in other countries can be obtained over the counter here. The reverse is equally true — certain items freely available abroad may require medical authorisation in Andorra. Never assume that the rules you are used to from another country apply here; always ask the pharmacist directly about the dispensing status of any medication you are seeking.

Is melatonin available over the counter in Andorra?

Melatonin is widely available at Andorran pharmacies and is among the products for which the principality is well known, often at prices that are competitive compared with neighbouring France and Spain. Lower-dose melatonin supplements are generally sold without a prescription in Andorra, though the position in some European countries differs. As regulations can be updated, it is always worth confirming the current status with your pharmacist.

Does Andorra have any special rules for controlled substances such as strong painkillers or anxiety medication?

Yes. Controlled substances — including opioid analgesics, certain benzodiazepines, and other regulated psychotropic medications — are subject to tighter dispensing requirements and can only be obtained with a valid prescription from a locally licensed doctor. If you are travelling to Andorra from abroad with such medications, contact the Andorran embassy or consulate in advance to confirm that your prescription medicines are lawful to import. Carrying a detailed letter from your prescribing doctor — covering your diagnosis, the medication, its dosage, and the duration of treatment — is strongly recommended.

Can I order medications from an Andorran online pharmacy if I live outside Andorra?

Some Andorran pharmacies do offer international shipping, particularly for para-pharmacy items and over-the-counter products, though complex cross-border rules can affect delivery. Prescription medicines are subject to the same legal requirements regardless of the sales channel — a valid prescription is obligatory — and the import regulations of the destination country must also be respected. Before placing an order for prescription drugs from any foreign online pharmacy, always verify the rules that apply in your own country to avoid legal complications or confiscation at customs.