Convenient access to medication and health supplies is a daily necessity.
This directory helps you locate pharmacies in Buenos Aires, including those that are open 24 hours. Find neighborhood pharmacies for prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and personal care products throughout the city.
In Buenos Aires, pharmacies (known as “farmacias”) are plentiful and strategically located throughout the city’s neighborhoods.
Unlike in many North American cities where large chain pharmacies dominate, Buenos Aires offers a mix of independent pharmacies and smaller chains that often have more personalized service.
Many feature the distinctive red cross symbol outside, making them easy to identify. While public healthcare facilities provide subsidized medications, most expats find themselves visiting local farmacias for prescriptions and over-the-counter needs.
The city follows Argentina’s national system, where pharmacists often play a more consultative role than in some Western countries, able to recommend treatments for minor ailments without a doctor’s prescription.
One significant difference expats encounter is Argentina’s prescription system.
Many medications that might be over-the-counter in the US or Europe require prescriptions here, while, conversely, some prescription medications in other countries are available without one in Argentina.
Pharmacists have considerable authority to recommend and dispense medications for common conditions. English-speaking staff can be limited, so having basic Spanish phrases will help tremendously.
Unlike in some European countries, you’ll typically pay for medications at the counter rather than through insurance billing systems, though some private health plans may offer reimbursement options.
Always keep your prescription (receta) as it’s required for purchasing controlled substances and may be needed for insurance claims.
Many neighborhoods have at least one 24-hour pharmacy (farmacia de guardia), which is essential to know for emergencies – these rotate monthly, so ask your local pharmacist which ones are currently open overnight.
For English-speaking assistance, private clinics often have connected pharmacies with bilingual staff, or visit pharmacies near tourist areas like Palermo or Microcentro, where staff may have more language exposure.
Always compare prices between pharmacies, as costs for the same medication can vary significantly.
Pharmacy costs in Buenos Aires are generally more affordable than in the United States, though prices have increased with recent economic fluctuations.
Brand-name medications tend to be more expensive, while generic alternatives offer substantial savings with equivalent effectiveness.
Many expats find that joining a private healthcare plan (prepagos) provides access to preferred pharmacy networks with discounted rates. For regular medications, consider asking about “planes” (treatment plans), which might offer multi-purchase discounts.
If you have a chronic condition, building a relationship with a single pharmacist ensures continuity of care and may lead to personalized service.
Remember that in Argentina’s public health system, prescription costs are partially subsidized (typically 30-60% of retail price), but most expats without local employment access medications through private pharmacies at full price.
