Pharmacies in Nerja
The summer sun can be merciless on the Costa del Sol. Henry shares his experiences and practical tips on pharmacies in Nerja, what to expect, and where to go for minor and major ailments.
It was the middle of August; the sun was already burning early in the day. You know how it is: a quick trip to the shop, forgot your cap, and then a day later you've got a red face and a pounding headache. A classic here, especially when you've just arrived and underestimate the Spanish sun. I was lucky it was only paracetamol and sunscreen, but it did make me think again about how important it is to know where to go when something's wrong. Pharmacies here are a whole different story, especially compared to back home. They're more than just a place for medicines; they're often the first stop for minor ailments. And in the summer months, with temperatures regularly shooting above 32 degrees, that's not a luxury, mind you. You see them everywhere in Nerja, recognizable by the green cross that often lights up in the dark, a beacon of hope if you suddenly need something.
The local pharmacy
Luckily, pharmacies in Nerja are well spread across the town, so you never have to walk far if you need something. They've got long opening hours, which is really a lifesaver in the summer months. I've had it happen where I needed something late in the evening for a bee sting – 'cause that's part of summer here too – and it's nice not to find everything locked up.
What stands out is the service. They take their time with you, even if it's busy. You can often get advice there for minor ailments like sunburn, insect bites, or a cold. They don't just sell medicines, but also lots of toiletries and special sunscreens you won't find in the supermarket. Just ask for what you're looking for, and if you try in English, you'll often get quite far. They're used to tourists.
What to expect
When you walk into a pharmacy, you immediately see the difference from the Netherlands. Here, the medicines aren't behind the counter; they're often just on open shelves. Still, you've got to ask for most prescription medicines at the counter. The pharmacist then assesses whether it's safe to give it, even if you don't have a prescription from a Spanish doctor.
For many common remedies, like painkillers, antacids, or allergy meds, you don't need a prescription here. That saves a lot of hassle if you need something quickly. If you do need a prescription for something stronger, you'll have to see a GP first. The health centers in Nerja are the place for that, but that's another story. For tourists with an EHIC card, care is often well-arranged. A handy tip, and something only a local will tell you: queues can be long in the afternoon. So try to go in the morning, right after opening, or later in the evening if you're not in dire need. Especially the bigger pharmacies in the center attract a lot of people. Sometimes the smaller pharmacy on a side street is much quicker, even if you don't spot it as easily. They often have the same range, just less of that big chain feel.
Specific locations
There are several pharmacies in Nerja that are open 24/7, or at least have very generous evening and weekend hours. This is often indicated by a sign on the door or via a rota displayed in every pharmacy. If you need something at night, look for the 'farmacia de guardia'. You can often find these via Google Maps by searching for 'farmacia 24h Nerja'.
One of the central pharmacies, and one I often use myself when I'm in the center, is on Calle Pintada. It's easy to find and has a wide range of products. For those staying more towards the east of Nerja, towards Burriana, there are options too. Supermarkets here don't sell medicines, by the way, so you really have to go to a pharmacy for that. My tip for summer: always bring some standard remedies from home if you prefer specific brands. As I wrote before about buying Dutch products here, for example, you'll find alternatives for many things, but sometimes your own trusted stuff is just nicer. Think of your favorite paracetamol, insect repellent, or aftersun. And don't forget good sunglasses; that bright sun can really strain your eyes.
Frequently asked questions
### Can I get medicines without a prescription in Spain? Yes, many medicines that are only available on prescription back home, you can buy without one in Spanish pharmacies. Think of certain painkillers, anti-inflammatories, nasal sprays, and allergy medicines. The pharmacist will often ask questions just to make sure the remedy is right for your ailment.
### Are there 24-hour pharmacies in Nerja? Oh yes. There's always a pharmacy in Nerja on duty outside regular opening hours, even at night and on weekends. These 'farmacias de guardia' work on a rotation system. The pharmacy on duty is usually indicated on the door of every pharmacy, or you can find the current info online by searching for 'farmacia de guardia Nerja'.
### Do Spanish pharmacies accept Dutch insurance? No, Spanish pharmacies usually don't accept direct claims from Dutch health insurers. You pay for the medicines yourself first, and then you can submit the receipts to your own health insurer in the Netherlands for a possible reimbursement. Keep the till receipt safe, 'cause it'll have all the info you need for your claim.
### Do supermarkets sell medicines in Nerja? No, in Spain, it's not legally allowed for supermarkets to sell medicines. Even simple painkillers or plasters, you've got to get from an official pharmacy. Supermarkets do sell things like sun cream, insect repellents, and basic toiletries, but no pharmaceutical products.
### Is the pharmacy staff English-speaking? Generally, the staff in Nerja's pharmacies are pretty good with English, especially given the large number of international tourists. They're used to questions from foreign visitors and can often help you perfectly. I noticed that with basic advice. A few words of Spanish always help, of course, but it's certainly not a requirement to get help. Just go for it, you'll be fine.