What OTC drugs can you buy in France that you need an Rx for in U.S.?
Sep 5th, 2013, 11:43 PM
#41
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Palenq,
I can't give you a specific date but know it has been at least 5 years that paracetamol with codeine has been available OTC in France. And, it's literally over the counter, you can't take it off the shelf, you have to ask the pharmacist who then hands you the drug. The amount of codeine in the packaging is already low but this method also limits the quantity that can be purchased.
This process also applies to virtually all drugs that in the States we can take directly off the shelf--aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.
I can't give you a specific date but know it has been at least 5 years that paracetamol with codeine has been available OTC in France. And, it's literally over the counter, you can't take it off the shelf, you have to ask the pharmacist who then hands you the drug. The amount of codeine in the packaging is already low but this method also limits the quantity that can be purchased.
This process also applies to virtually all drugs that in the States we can take directly off the shelf--aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.
Sep 10th, 2013, 02:58 AM
#42
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Regarding possible self-diagnosis: my children regularly had ear infections and our GP always prescribes the same: amoxcililin in a certain dose. I have never needed to get it elsewhere. But If I had been in e.g. Greece and my children would get an ear-infecten and the pharmacists was willing to give the antibiotics, I problably would have taken them.
Sep 11th, 2013, 04:03 AM
#44
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Every European country has it own set of rules and regulations regarding OTC. And they aren't always logical. For instance; the Netherlands is rather strict, but yet, naproxen and diclofenac is freely available here. Other countries are less strict (they sell a lot OTC), but for instance no naproxen.
The thing is also: sometimes medicines need prescriptions in a certain country, but is is the pharmaist that is willing to sell it OTC (thus illegal).
The thing is also: sometimes medicines need prescriptions in a certain country, but is is the pharmaist that is willing to sell it OTC (thus illegal).
Sep 27th, 2013, 05:55 PM
#45
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Are there any anti-anxiety meds? Such as ativan or zanax? I recently lost insurance in the U.S. and was hoping to get them OTC in France or Spain. I used to live in South America where I was able to get them but don't remember the names..
Sep 28th, 2013, 05:39 AM
#47
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In the middle of a 15 day Transatlantic cruise last Spring, I contracted Strep Throat! Yes, self-diagnosed by the sore, red throat and white bumps. I was VERY glad I had brought a course of antibiotics. Saved an expensive trip to the ship's doctor and probably days of isolation. I laid low for a few days and was good to go. I will be sure to pack the same for my next trip.
And, BTW, antibiotics are available OTC in Mexico- at least they are in Cozumel.
And, BTW, antibiotics are available OTC in Mexico- at least they are in Cozumel.
