Can I buy antibiotics at a pharmacy in Spain without a prescription?
No. Antibiotics require a prescription. A pharmacist cannot simply hand them over because you have a sore throat, a cough, earache, a suspected urinary infection or a familiar-sounding symptom. AEMPS and public-health guidance emphasise appropriate use because unnecessary antibiotics can cause harm and contribute to resistance.
Ask a pharmacist about symptom relief, but if you think you need an antibiotic, arrange a clinical assessment. The doctor may decide an antibiotic is appropriate, advise supportive care instead, ask for a test, or refer you for an in-person examination. The right decision depends on the individual illness, not a search result or a previous course.
How can a tourist get antibiotics in Spain if they are needed?
- Describe the symptoms. Note when they began, fever, pain, allergies, pregnancy, past illness and medicines you already take.
- Speak to a clinician. Costa's English-speaking online consultation is €39 for new symptoms; telephone or video can be a useful first step if the situation is not urgent.
- Follow the assessment. The doctor may prescribe, request testing or recommend in-person care. A prescription is not promised simply because you book.
- Use a pharmacy. If prescribed, the medicine is dispensed and paid for separately at a local pharmacy, subject to stock and pharmacy rules.
Common searches: UTI, throat, chest and skin
Emergency? Call 112 for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, a rapidly spreading rash with serious illness, or other urgent symptoms. An online appointment cannot replace emergency care.
Why a doctor may say no to antibiotics
Antibiotics work against bacterial infections, not viruses. Unnecessary treatment can cause adverse effects and resistance. Even when an infection is bacterial, the appropriate agent and duration depend on the site, severity, allergies and local guidance. Do not use leftover tablets or someone else's prescription. Finish or adjust a prescribed course only as directed by the treating clinician.
Can I use the €25 repeat-prescription route for antibiotics?
No for a new illness. Costa's €25 repeat pathway is for established, ongoing medicines. A new infection needs the €39 doctor consultation, even if you have had similar symptoms before. Read when the repeat route does apply.
Explain your symptoms clearly in English
When travelling, it can be hard to describe a symptom accurately in another language. An English-speaking doctor can ask about the course of the illness, relevant history, antibiotic allergies and previous treatment. Bring a photograph of a rash if applicable and the names of medicines you already take. If a test or examination is needed, the doctor can explain the next step.
Quick answers
Can I buy amoxicillin in a Spain supermarket?
No. Antibiotics are prescription medicines; use the medical assessment and pharmacy route.
Will a video doctor always prescribe antibiotics?
No. The clinician decides whether they are safe and indicated. Some symptoms need a test or in-person care.
Can I use antibiotics left over from home?
Do not self-treat a new illness with leftovers. The cause, medicine and course may be wrong.
Can travel insurance cover the visit?
Coverage depends on your policy. Ask for a medical report and invoice, keep pharmacy receipts and check the insurer's claim requirements. Read the travel insurance checklist.
Official sources, checked 8 November 2026
- AEMPS: medicines and pharmacy rules
- UK government: health in Spain
- UK government: prescriptions in Spain
- UK government: insurance documents and receipts
- AEMPS: antibiotics and prescriptions
Written by the Costa Medical Services editorial team. This general information is not a diagnosis or individual prescription. Read the Portugal version.