Russia – Prescriptions and Medications

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

The Russian word for pharmacy is аптека (pronounced “apteka”), and these establishments are identified by the same green cross on a white background that serves as the pharmacy symbol across much of Europe. This makes them readily identifiable even to newcomers who have not yet learned to read Cyrillic script.

In urban areas, aptekas are remarkably easy to find. In Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other sizeable cities, they appear with striking frequency — in some neighbourhoods, several branches of the same chain operate within a single block, creating an exceptionally dense local network. Even outside major urban centres, pharmacies are a common feature of Russian towns and suburbs.

Russian aptekas are generally well-regulated establishments carrying a broad range of both prescription and non-prescription products. Beyond medicines, they commonly stock herbal preparations, skincare goods, and traditional health remedies that reflect longstanding Russian approaches to wellbeing. Most pharmacies operate on a counter-service model, with staff in white coats attending customers from behind a dispensing desk — a layout that differs from the self-service format familiar in many other countries.

What are pharmacy opening hours in Russia?

Standard pharmacy hours run from 09:00 to 20:00 on weekdays and from 10:00 to 18:00 on Saturdays. Sunday hours are inconsistent — some pharmacies close entirely, while others maintain a reduced timetable. Outlets in rural areas or smaller towns may keep shorter hours than those in major cities.

Round-the-clock pharmacies operate in larger cities, particularly Moscow and St. Petersburg. For expats who depend on regular medication, knowing the location of a nearby 24-hour apteka in advance is a sensible precaution, especially for managing unexpected illness outside regular hours or on public holidays.

Unlike countries such as the Netherlands or Germany, where formal duty pharmacy rotas are published by local authorities, Russia does not operate a widely advertised national on-call pharmacy system. That said, the sheer concentration of pharmacies in major urban areas — combined with the availability of 24-hour options — means that finding an open apteka at almost any hour is generally feasible in larger cities. Expats living in smaller towns are advised to verify local hours directly and keep an adequate home supply of any essential medication.

Which medicines can I buy over the counter in Russia, and which require a prescription?

Russian pharmacies stock a wide variety of medications that can be purchased without a doctor’s prescription, alongside a category of drugs for which a prescription is mandatory. Over-the-counter products typically cover everyday complaints and minor health conditions, including:

• Analgesics such as paracetamol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen, and aspirin.
• Cold and flu preparations including cough syrups, nasal decongestants, and throat lozenges.
• Digestive remedies such as antacids, anti-diarrhoeal medications, and laxatives.
• Vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements.

One notable feature of the Russian pharmacy system is that some medications requiring a prescription in other countries — certain antibiotics, for instance — may be dispensed over the counter. This contrasts sharply with healthcare systems where antibiotics are always subject to a doctor’s authorisation. At the same time, drugs available without restriction in some countries — including certain codeine-containing preparations, potent painkillers, and anxiolytic medicines — are subject to tight controls or outright prohibition in Russia.

Ordering medications online is possible in Russia, and several domestic platforms offer home delivery. Well-established sites such as apteka.ru are widely used. However, caution is warranted — always confirm that any online pharmacy is legitimate and that the medication in question is both safe and legally available for purchase. Attempting to order prescription drugs from overseas online pharmacies and importing them into Russia by post is an entirely separate matter, governed by strict customs rules; further detail is provided in the section on bringing medications into Russia.

Will my prescription from another country be accepted in Russia?

Prescriptions issued in another country will not be honoured at a Russian pharmacy unless they have been translated into Russian. Some international medical clinics can assist with this process. Russia is not party to any multilateral arrangement permitting foreign prescriptions to be used directly at the dispensing counter — unlike, for example, the partial cross-recognition that applies to European Economic Area prescriptions among EU member states.

For most newly arrived expats, the most dependable approach is to obtain a fresh prescription from a doctor registered in Russia. It is also worth checking whether your home country has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Russia, as this affects eligibility to access the public health system through which prescriptions are issued. Temporary residents — those holding work permits or business visas, for example — can only access public healthcare where such reciprocity arrangements exist. As an illustration, British nationals are entitled to an OMS policy, whereas US citizens are not. Always confirm your specific entitlements with your country’s consulate in Russia before assuming any reciprocal arrangement applies to you.

If you arrive with an existing prescription and require medication without delay, an international medical centre is your most practical starting point. Staff at these facilities are accustomed to navigating Russian healthcare on behalf of foreign patients and can often help with prescriptions originally written in other languages, as well as directing you to a suitable apteka.

How do I get a prescription in Russia?

Whether you access care through the public or private system, obtaining a prescription in Russia follows a defined sequence of steps. Here is what to expect:

1. Register with a local clinic (polyclinic). The public OMS system allocates patients to a polyclinic based on their registered address. Expats holding a valid OMS policy register at the polyclinic serving their district. Those opting for private healthcare may attend any private clinic without prior registration.
2. Book an appointment with a general practitioner (therapist). The Russian equivalent of a general practitioner is called a terapevt. This doctor conducts initial assessments and issues referrals. Private clinics typically offer considerably shorter waiting times than public polyclinics.
3. Attend the consultation and request a prescription. During your appointment, the doctor will review your medical history, current medications, and any existing diagnosis before deciding whether to issue a prescription. Bringing records or documentation from your home country doctor — even in an untranslated form — can help establish relevant clinical context.
4. Collect the written prescription. In Russia, prescriptions are traditionally written on paper, though the gradual rollout of electronic prescriptions is under way. The document will identify the medication either by its international non-proprietary (generic) name or by its Russian trade name.
5. Take the prescription to an apteka. Prescriptions in Russia are not tied to a particular pharmacy — you may take yours to any apteka to have it filled.
6. Be aware of validity limits. A Russian prescription is typically valid for up to three months. Once this period has elapsed, a further consultation will be needed to obtain a new one.

Russian pharmacists are often knowledgeable about minor ailments and frequently recommend treatments directly. For straightforward complaints, consulting the pharmacist rather than booking a doctor’s appointment is a common and socially accepted practice in Russia, much as it is in France or Italy.

How much do prescriptions cost in Russia, and is there a subsidised medicines scheme?

Russia does not use a flat-fee prescription charge system comparable to England’s fixed dispensing charge or Germany’s co-payment model. The actual cost you face depends on your insurance status and whether you qualify for any of the country’s subsidy programmes.

The reimbursement framework in Russia is structured differently from Western European models and encompasses several distinct programmes: reimbursement for particular categories of citizens, a vital and essential drug list, a list covering 24 rare diseases, a list of 7 nosologies, and various regionally administered schemes. Funding for drug provision is split between federal and regional levels, which means that subsidy availability can differ considerably depending on where you are living in the country.

The most significant list to be aware of is the Zhiznenno Neobkhodimye i Vazhneyshie Lekarstvennye Preparaty (ZNVLP) — commonly translated as the List of Vital and Essential Medicines — which encompasses hundreds of drugs subject to state price regulation. The rules governing the formation of this list were updated by a Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation issued in July 2024. Prices for medicines appearing on the ZNVLP are capped, offering a degree of protection against cost increases for commonly prescribed treatments.

Holders of Russian health insurance may pay only a modest co-payment for prescription items. Without Russian insurance, the full price applies — though for most standard medications this remains considerably lower than comparable costs in many other countries, typically 50–80% less than equivalent prices in the United States, with generic versions providing even greater savings. However, readers should be aware that the cost of imported drugs rose substantially in 2024 as a result of sanctions-related disruptions to supply chains, so prices for specific imported medications may be significantly higher than previously. For the most current figures, check directly at your apteka or consult the Russian Ministry of Health website (minzdrav.gov.ru).

Payment at Russian pharmacies is accepted in cash or by credit card, and many outlets also support payment by mobile phone.

Are brand-name and generic medicines both available in Russia?

Both internationally recognised brand-name products and domestically produced Russian medicines are available in Russian pharmacies. Quality is broadly considered comparable, though individual preferences differ. Doctors may issue prescriptions using either the international non-proprietary (generic) name or a specific brand name, and pharmacists can generally suggest a generic alternative when a branded version is unavailable or disproportionately expensive.

Russia manufactures a wide range of inexpensive generics, but branded drugs have been leaving the market as a consequence of low selling prices. This trend is primarily driven by the departure of multinational pharmaceutical companies from Russia, the government’s import substitution agenda, the cessation of clinical trials by international firms, and price increases resulting from disrupted supply chains. As a result, some branded products that were previously straightforward to obtain may now require more effort to source or may only be accessible through specialist channels.

Expats managing ongoing health conditions are advised to note down the generic name of any required medication — ideally in Russian — before visiting a pharmacy. Keep in mind that the commercial names of medicines often differ between countries, so it is always important to verify that the active formula and dosage match what was originally prescribed. Russian pharmacy databases such as apteka.ru allow searches by generic name, making it easier to confirm availability and compare prices across different brands.

What should expats know about bringing medications into Russia from abroad?

Russia enforces strict customs regulations on the personal importation of medications, and it is essential to understand these rules before travelling or relocating. The consequences of non-compliance can be serious.

As a general principle, medications intended to treat common conditions — colds, gastrointestinal complaints, inflammation, or vitamin deficiencies — may be placed in your luggage without formal declaration. However, some seemingly routine products, such as certain cough syrups, may contain controlled substances such as codeine and must therefore be declared.

All medications should be carried in their original packaging, complete with the product name, label, and patient information leaflet. Transferring medicines into pillboxes, plastic bags, or other unmarked containers can raise concerns with customs officers and may result in confiscation. Carrying medications in hand luggage rather than checked baggage is also advisable.

For any medication requiring customs documentation, bring prescriptions that demonstrate medical necessity and use generic drug names where possible, since brand names vary internationally. A quantity of up to a three-month supply is generally permitted without requiring special authorisation. Controlled substances are subject to considerably stricter rules or may be prohibited outright.

If your medications contain substances listed on Russia’s registers of narcotic or psychotropic substances, you must declare them at customs and present a prescription translated into Russian and formally notarised. The foundational list of these substances was established by Russian Government Decree No. 681, dated 30 June 1998, and has been amended on multiple occasions since. Checking the most recent version before travelling is strongly recommended.

Russia applies very strict controls to medication imports. Certain prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are commonplace in other countries are prohibited or tightly restricted in Russia, and large quantities of any medicine will invite scrutiny. If you are uncertain about any specific product, direct your enquiry to the Federal Customs Service of the Russian Federation via their official website. Consulting the Russian embassy or consulate in your home country before departure is also advisable, as regulations can change at short notice.

How do private health insurance and public healthcare affect prescription costs in Russia?

Russia’s public health system operates under the Obligatory Medical Insurance scheme, known as OMS. Every Russian citizen and working resident is automatically enrolled in OMS, which covers inpatient treatment, procedures requiring an overnight stay, chronic disease management, maternity and newborn care, vaccinations, and related services. Some prescription medications are also subsidised or provided free of charge to eligible OMS holders — particularly those appearing on the ZNVLP essential medicines list or within designated disease-specific programmes.

Expats and foreign nationals can access Russia’s public healthcare system through OMS. When relocating to Russia on a work permit, the employer is typically responsible for obtaining the OMS policy and meeting its monthly contributions. Foreign nationals holding a permanent residency permit (vid na zhitelstvo) enjoy the same entitlements to free public healthcare as Russian citizens. However, eligibility is not automatic — it is determined by your residency status, nationality, and the bilateral agreements in place between Russia and your home country.

Under OMS, there may be additional charges for certain individual items, such as single-use needles and specific medications. Dental and vision care are not covered, and psychiatric or psychological services are only partially included. Unlike the NHS in the United Kingdom, where most prescriptions are dispensed for a flat statutory fee (or free for qualifying groups), OMS does not provide a universal flat-rate prescription model — costs vary according to the drug, the condition being treated, and subsidy eligibility.

Voluntary Health Insurance (VHI) is an optional private insurance product that supplements the coverage provided by OMS. While OMS is compulsory and state-funded, VHI is purchased voluntarily — often by individuals seeking broader treatment options, faster access to care, or coverage for services excluded from OMS. It is also commonly provided as a workplace benefit by employers.

Since 2022, a number of prominent international insurers have scaled back or withdrawn their operations in Russia following the imposition of sanctions. Some regional insurers and international brokers continue to offer coverage, but expats should confirm availability before arriving. Despite these changes, Russia’s private healthcare sector continues to develop, providing higher-quality facilities, shorter waiting times, and English-speaking medical staff. For prescription costs specifically, VHI from a Russian provider or an international health insurance plan will typically cover outpatient medications prescribed during a covered consultation, though the details vary considerably between policies. Always review the formulary and coverage terms of your specific plan before relying on it to meet medication costs. Outside OMS-covered public clinics, it is rare for insurance to be accepted in place of upfront payment — the standard practice is to pay at the point of dispensing and submit a claim for reimbursement. Retain all receipts and prescription copies for this purpose.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I need medication urgently and cannot yet see a Russian doctor?

Emergency treatment is available to everyone in Russia regardless of citizenship or insurance status — using the ambulance service or attending an emergency department does not require payment. For urgent but non-critical needs, attending a 24-hour private clinic in a major city is the quickest route to obtaining a prescription. Many such clinics can issue a prescription on the same visit and will point you toward a nearby apteka. It is worth keeping a translation app on your phone, and where possible carrying a written note from your home country doctor summarising your condition and usual treatment regimen.

How do I find a pharmacist who can communicate with me if I don’t speak Russian?

In larger cities — Moscow and St. Petersburg in particular — certain pharmacies serve a significant expat clientele, making it more likely that staff will have some level of proficiency in English or another widely spoken language. These outlets also tend to stock a wider range of international brands. Mobile apps designed for medical translation are available in Russia and can help you convey symptoms to pharmacy staff and make sense of dosage instructions. Writing down the generic names of your medications in Russian before visiting an apteka is always a useful practical measure.

How do I manage a chronic condition during the transition period before I have established local healthcare?

Anyone who relies on regular prescription medication should arrive in Russia with enough supply to cover the initial settling-in period, since your specific medicine may not be immediately available locally. Well before your move, contact your home country doctor to secure an adequate supply and obtain a comprehensive medical letter. Once in Russia, booking an initial consultation at a private clinic is generally the fastest way to get a local prescription issued and begin managing your condition through Russian healthcare channels.

Are there medicines commonly available elsewhere that are banned or restricted in Russia?

Yes. A number of medications that are freely prescribed or sold without restriction in many other countries are controlled or prohibited in Russia. These include certain analgesics containing codeine, some benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium), and various stimulant drugs. Even products that appear unremarkable — certain cough medicines, for example — may contain regulated substances that require declaration at customs. Note that the name of a narcotic or psychotropic substance may not correspond to the brand name of the medication you are carrying. Always confirm the regulatory status of any medication you plan to bring with the Federal Customs Service or the Russian embassy before you travel.

Can I have medications posted or couriered to me in Russia from abroad?

This is a legally complicated area. Importing medications by post or courier is subject to the same controlled substances regulations that apply when carrying medicines in person, and enforcement practices can be inconsistent. Sending restricted prescription drugs through the postal system is not permitted — such items will be returned or confiscated. For non-controlled, over-the-counter products, the legal and practical situation is less clear-cut. Given the risk of confiscation and potential legal consequences, the strongly recommended approach is to source medications locally wherever possible. If you are considering importing by mail, consult the Federal Customs Service (customs.gov.ru) or a qualified local legal adviser first.

Will my private health insurance cover prescriptions in Russia?

VHI (Voluntary Health Insurance) offers a wider scope of coverage than OMS, including access to specialised treatments, higher-standard private healthcare facilities, and — depending on the plan — mental health services and physiotherapy. Whether the cost of outpatient prescriptions is covered depends entirely on the terms of your specific policy. Many VHI and international health insurance plans will reimburse prescription medications issued during a covered consultation, but formulary restrictions may apply, and certain drugs may require prior authorisation. Outside OMS-covered public facilities, paying for medication upfront and then claiming reimbursement from your insurer is the standard arrangement. Keep all receipts and copies of prescriptions to support any claims you submit.

Are there shortages of certain medicines in Russia that expats should be aware of?

This is an important practical consideration. While some products have returned to pharmacy shelves, many specialist and complex drugs have been in persistent short supply, and the range of unavailable medicines has been growing — driven largely by the withdrawal of multinational pharmaceutical companies from the Russian market, the government’s import substitution drive, the suspension of clinical trials, and supply chain disruptions that have pushed prices upward. In 2024, Russian pharmacies stocked 134 fewer essential drugs than in the previous year. Expats whose conditions require specialist or branded medications should conduct thorough research into local availability before relocating and should consider maintaining a reserve supply within the limits permitted by customs regulations.

Where can I verify current official information about prescriptions and medicines in Russia?

The most authoritative and up-to-date information can be found through the following official channels: the Russian Ministry of Health (minzdrav.gov.ru) for healthcare policy, subsidy programmes, and essential medicines lists; the Federal Customs Service (customs.gov.ru) for rules governing the importation of medications; and the State Register of Medicines (grls.rosminzdrav.ru) for confirming whether a particular drug is registered for use in Russia. Given the pace at which regulations and drug availability can change, consulting these sources — or seeking advice from a local healthcare professional — before making any significant decisions is strongly recommended.