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Is ibuprophen available at Greek pharmacies?

Posted by (Nor cal) on

I will be going to Greece soon for about a month. I take ibuprophen for a chronic back problem. I will be taking some with me but would like to know if I can buy it there or do I need to take more than I normally would. I have not had a problem buying it in other European countries but some sources say it is only available by prescription in Greece. Is that accurate?

Also, I assume it is ok to bring with me even if it is only by prescription in Greece?

Does Greek Customs require declaring medications upon entry? Does that apply to over the counter meds as well? I can’t find definitive answers to these questions, although I’ve tried.

Thanks

Posted by
2126 posts

I have never had to declare medications (prescription or over-the-counter) at Greek customs -- or anywhere in Europe, for that matter.

If you are taking ibuprofen regularly, bring enough with you to last you through the month. You may able to purchase it in Greece, but sometimes over-the-counter meds are only available in small quantities and are much more expensive than in the US. And why bother? There are much better ways to spend your time in Greece than shopping for ibuprofen!

Posted by
3519 posts

A quick search of the 'net gives many responses that ibuprofen is only available in Greece with a prescription.

However, you should be able to bring what you will need with you as it is rare for anyone to check for drugs in your suitcase when entering Europe. As long as you don't have suitcases full of it that is.

But I am not an expert in this, so your experience may vary from mine.

Posted by
1375 posts

Bring your own supply in the original container. We have been to Greece many times and have never had to make a declaration or had our bags checked. We did have to buy some ibuprofen once when my wife broke a bone in her foot. No prescription needed but it cast us 5 euros for 10 pills.

Posted by
58 posts

Thanks for the replies. stanbr: I interpret your answer as you bought ibuprophen in Greece. Good to know it isn’t completely verboten.

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