Pharmacies

Farmacias (chemists) can be identified by a neon lit green cross and will provide most medicines, including some, such as antibiotics, without a prescription.
They will also give advice about ailments and suggest remedies (usually in Spanish except on the Costa del Sol and other tourist areas however).
Each town has a local duty chemist that is open 24 hours. This will be listed in the window of all pharmacies and also in the local paper.
Pharmacies in Spain sell only products that relate to physical health and cleanliness. One will find both over-the-counter and prescription medications, skin care products, make-up, nutritional supplements, orthopedic shoes and supports, bandages, and baby products. Pharmacists are trained to take blood pressure and to help in choosing over-the-counter medications. A scale is normally available for customer use. Generally, antibiotics and more potent medications require a doctor’s prescription. Over-the-counter medications do not tend to be expensive; however, more specific medications can be.
Pharmacies are open on a daily basis from 8:00 – 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., and then take turns being on call for emergency, after-hours clientele. A weekly schedule of 24-hour pharmacies is posted both in the local daily newspaper and on a sign inside each pharmacy.

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