How to Purchase Medications at Pharmacies in China

Purchasing medications in China is a straightforward process, but it helps to understand the system to ensure a smooth experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to buying drugs at Chinese pharmacies.

1. Types of Pharmacies

In China, pharmacies are categorized into two main types:

• Retail Pharmacies (连锁药店): These are privately owned or chain stores, such as Guo Da Pharmacy (国大药房) or Haiwang Pharmacy (海王星辰). They sell over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and some prescription medications.
• Hospital Pharmacies (医院药房): Located within hospitals, these pharmacies dispense prescription drugs prescribed by doctors. They are the only place to obtain certain controlled medications.

2. Required Documents

For most OTC medications, no prescription is needed. However, for prescription drugs, you will need:

• A valid prescription from a licensed Chinese doctor.
• Your passport or ID (for foreigners).

3. Payment Methods

Chinese pharmacies accept various payment methods, including:

• Cash (RMB)
• Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay)
• Credit/debit cards (less common in smaller pharmacies)

4. Language Tips

If you don’t speak Mandarin, consider:

• Bringing the medication’s name written in Chinese.
• Using translation apps like Google Translate or Pleco.
• Visiting larger chain pharmacies where staff may speak basic English.

5. Common Medications

Popular OTC drugs available in Chinese pharmacies include:

• Pain relievers (e.g., 布洛芬 - Ibuprofen)
• Cold and flu remedies (e.g., 板蓝根 - Banlangen)
• Digestive aids (e.g., 健胃消食片 - Jianwei Xiaoshi Pian)

6. Safety Precautions

To ensure safe purchases:

• Check expiration dates on packaging.
• Avoid buying from unlicensed street vendors.
• Consult a pharmacist if unsure about dosage or interactions.

By following these steps, you can confidently navigate Chinese pharmacies and obtain the medications you need.