Quick answer: Pharmacies are easy to find in Panama City and in most towns, and many in the capital stay open late or around the clock. Over-the-counter products can be bought directly, but many medicines need a prescription from a doctor licensed in Panama, so bring your own prescription, your medicines in their original packaging and a list of their active ingredients (generic names). Ask the pharmacist if you cannot find your usual brand, and if you need a new prescription, see a local doctor. In an emergency, call 911.
Whether you are visiting, retiring or moving to Panama for work, sooner or later you will need a pharmacy. This guide explains how pharmacies work in Panama, what to bring from home and how to avoid problems. CanalMarket Medical is a directory: we help you find and contact health providers, but we do not give medical or pharmaceutical advice. For any question about a medicine, speak with a doctor or a pharmacist.
Where to find a pharmacy in Panama
In Panama City you will find pharmacies in shopping malls, supermarkets, inside or next to private hospitals and clinics, and on the main streets of neighbourhoods such as El Cangrejo, Obarrio, Punta Pacífica, San Francisco, Costa del Este and Albrook. National pharmacy chains and independent pharmacies both operate across the country. In smaller towns and beach areas the choice is more limited and opening hours are shorter, so plan ahead if you are travelling outside the capital.
Many pharmacies in Panama City open late, and some are open 24 hours. Opening hours change from branch to branch, so check them before you go, especially on Sundays and public holidays. Several chains also offer delivery by phone, WhatsApp or app in the capital.
Do you need a prescription in Panama?
It depends on the medicine. Common over-the-counter products are sold freely. Many other medicines, including antibiotics and controlled medicines, require a prescription, and pharmacies in Panama are regulated by the Ministry of Health (MINSA). A prescription written abroad may or may not be accepted, depending on the medicine and the pharmacy. The safest approach is:
- Bring enough of your regular medicines for the whole trip, plus a few extra days.
- Carry a copy of your prescription and a short letter from your doctor listing your medicines, the doses and the reason you take them.
- If you need a new prescription while in Panama, book an appointment with a licensed local doctor. Our guide on how to find an English-speaking doctor in Panama City explains how.
Do not ask a pharmacy to sell you a prescription medicine without a prescription, and do not buy medicines from street sellers or unknown websites.
Brand names and generic names
The same medicine can have a different brand name in Panama than in your country, or be sold by another manufacturer. That is why the active ingredient (the generic name) matters more than the brand. Write down the generic name and the dose of each of your medicines and show it to the pharmacist. If your exact product is not available, the pharmacist can tell you what is sold locally, but any change of medicine or dose should be agreed with your doctor.
Travelling to Panama with your own medicines
Keep your medicines in their original, labelled packaging and carry them in your hand luggage, with the copy of your prescription. If you take controlled medicines (for example some strong painkillers, sleeping pills or medicines for attention disorders), check the rules before you travel with the Embassy or Consulate of Panama in your country, because special documents may be required. If you use injectable medicines or equipment such as needles, carry your doctor’s letter as well.
Language and payment
Spanish is the main language in pharmacies. In tourist and business areas of Panama City you will often find staff who speak some English, but not always. Having the generic names written down solves most problems. Prices are in US dollars, which is legal tender in Panama, and most pharmacies accept cards. Keep your receipts if you plan to claim from your travel or health insurance.
When to see a doctor instead
A pharmacy is not a substitute for a medical consultation. See a doctor if you need a new medicine, if your symptoms are not improving, or if you are not sure what you need. Private hospitals in Panama City have emergency departments open 24 hours. For a serious emergency, call 911. If you are planning treatment in the country, read our step-by-step guide to medical travel to Panama.
Find pharmacies and doctors with CanalMarket Medical
CanalMarket Medical lists doctors, dentists, clinics, hospitals, laboratories and pharmacies in Panama, the United Arab Emirates, the United States and Qatar. It is part of CanalMarket Group, with offices in Panama City (Torre Las Américas, Punta Pacífica) and Dubai. Search the directory, ask the AI assistant on our home page to point you to providers by area and language, or contact our team.
Travelling with children? See how to find an English-speaking pediatrician in Panama City. Need dental care? Read our guide to finding an English-speaking dentist in Panama City.
Do you run a pharmacy in Panama? Visitors and expats search for pharmacies every day. List your pharmacy free with your address, opening hours, delivery options and languages, read how to list your practice online in Panama, and compare our featured plans, billed monthly, cancel anytime.
Frequently asked questions
Are there 24-hour pharmacies in Panama City?
Yes, some pharmacies in Panama City are open 24 hours, and many others open late. Hours vary by branch, so check before you go, especially on Sundays and holidays.
Can I use a prescription from another country in Panama?
It depends on the medicine and the pharmacy. Bring a copy of your prescription and a doctor’s letter, and if you need a new prescription, see a doctor licensed in Panama.
What should I do if my medicine has a different name in Panama?
Show the pharmacist the generic name (active ingredient) and the dose. Any change of medicine or dose should be agreed with your doctor.
Can I bring my own medicines to Panama?
Carry them in their original packaging with a copy of the prescription. For controlled medicines, check the requirements with the Embassy or Consulate of Panama before you travel.
Does CanalMarket Medical give advice about medicines?
No. CanalMarket Medical is a directory that helps you find and contact health providers. For any question about a medicine, speak with a doctor or a pharmacist.
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