PRESCRIPTIONS
 

Has anyone tried to fill a prescription in Costa Rica? Will they take a U.S. prescription from a U.S. doctor?

Vicki -<BR><BR>I really don't mean any disrespect, but - why on earth would you do this? Even if you could get it filled, there is NO guarantee that it is the same thing you'd get in the U.S.

If it is non narcotic you probably won't need a prescription at all. Bring your presciption anyway and in a worse case scenaro have a local doctor write you the equivanent scrip there. You should have no problem.

Vicki,<BR><BR>I had to use a pharmacy in Quepos. It was absolutely no problem - the doctor on duty (that's right, a doctor) provided me medication without a prescription from home. I should point out that this was for an eye ointment, so I would follow the advice of the above poster and bring your doctor's prescription if you need a narcotic.

I take several medications daily, some of which are controlled substances. My doctor in the U.S. will order an extra-long scrip for me if I'm to be out of the country at fill time. You MUST take it in its original, labeled container. Even in Europe, one of the scrips filled abroad will not be quite the same substance as I get here.

Prescriptions are only required for narcotics or addictive drugs in Costa Rica. If your drugs are narcotics you would defintely need to bring a prescripton and see a doctor to write a new one.<BR>Otherwise the vast majority of stuff from antidepressants to ointments are sold over the counter.<BR>Most drugs are avalable in the name brand and in a generic variety, which is generally WAY cheaper.<BR>One funny thing here is that name brand things like Ibuprofen and similar us over-the-counter pan relievers are very expensive, bring some, you will be pissed when you see how much they costs here!<BR>There are a few drugs that are not available here although the most commonly prescribed drugs are widely available made by the US or foreign manufacturers.<BR>Best warm wishes!<BR>Robbie<BR>

I must clarify my question. My husband is on several medications (not narcotic) that are very expensive in the States. We were wondering if we could save money by purchasing them in Costa Rica. I know several people who go to Mexico and Canada for that reason.<BR>Thanks for all the replys.<BR>Vicki

Vicki,<BR>NO. You will not save money in CR on Rx.<BR>But many pharmacys have a MD on staff if needed as indicated in other posts above. Bring what you need with you.