Prague: Health

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Health

Specific Issues in Prague

There are no serious health hazards for travelers in the Czech Republic. The tap water is drinkable, but some of the pipes are old, so let the water run a bit before drinking. Bottled water is a plentiful and cheap alternative.

Over-the-Counter Remedies

Pharmacies in Prague are well-stocked with prescription and nonprescription drugs, though you may have trouble convincing a pharmacist to fill a foreign prescription. It's best to bring from home all of the prescribed medications you are likely to need. Pharmacies are generally open during regular business hours from 9 AM to 6 PM, with special weekend and nighttime service rotating among them. During off-hours, pharmacies will post the name and address of the nearest open pharmacy on their doors. Pharmacies sell not only prescription medicines but are the only licensed dealers of typical over-the-counter products like pain relievers and cough medicines. Most standard U.S. over-the-counter products have Czech equivalents. Aspirin is widely available. The most common nonaspirin pain reliever is Ibalgin (ibuprofen), sold in 200 mg and 400 mg doses.

Pharmacists may not speak English or know a drug's non-Czech brand name, but will certainly know the drug's generic name ("acetaminophen" for "Tylenol," for example). Be sure to call a drug by its generic name when asking for it.