Shortly after arriving in Valencia, I unfortunately got sick. After a few days of a cold and fever, I couldn’t take it anymore and had to bite the bullet to experience the famous Spanish public healthcare system. I was quite anxious beforehand, as I had seen many online posts claiming that Spain is currently facing a medicine shortage, especially for antibiotics and some common drugs. I was worried I might get a prescription but not be able to find the medication.
My Emergency Room Experience
I went to the Urgencias (emergency department) at the local Centro de Salud (health center). It wasn’t too crowded, and I saw a doctor after about a half-hour wait. The doctor was a very kind man who asked about my symptoms, took my temperature, and listened to my lungs. He quickly diagnosed it as a common flu. He prescribed me a fever reducer and a nasal spray to relieve congestion and a runny nose. The whole process was much smoother than I had imagined, and the doctor was very nice and patient.
Buying Medicine at the Pharmacy: Is There Really a Shortage?
With my electronic prescription, I went to the pharmacy downstairs. This was the part I was most worried about. I handed my social security card to the pharmacist, still wondering if they would say, “Lo siento, no tenemos” (Sorry, we don’t have it). To my surprise, the pharmacist efficiently grabbed the two medicines the doctor had prescribed from the shelf—no sign of a shortage at all! I also asked if ibuprofen was easy to buy. The pharmacist smiled and said, “No problem, we have plenty.” This was a huge relief. It seems the situation isn’t as exaggerated as some online posts about Spanish medical supplies make it out to be.
What’s the Real Story Behind the Medicine Shortage?
So, is there truly a medicine shortage in Spain, or are there other issues at play, such as reports of stolen medical supplies? Based on my observations and conversations with local friends, the so-called “medicine shortage” does exist, but it’s not a full-blown crisis. It’s more of a structural and temporary shortage. For instance, a specific brand of a certain drug might be in tight supply for a period due to production or supply chain issues, but pharmacists will usually recommend an alternative with the same active ingredients and effects.
I’ve compiled a list of some highly discussed drugs and their recent supply status for your reference:
| Drug Name | Common Use | Recent Supply Status |
|---|
| Amoxicilina | Antibiotic | Supply tight for some brands, but alternatives are available |
| Paracetamol | Fever and pain relief | Sufficient supply |
| Ibuprofeno | Fever, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory | Sufficient supply |
| Ozempic | Blood sugar control/Weight loss | Supply extremely tight, very difficult to buy |
For common ailments that we encounter in daily life, like colds, fevers, or allergies, the supply of common medicines is generally guaranteed. What’s truly in short supply are “viral” prescription drugs like Ozempic, which is also used for weight loss. So, when it comes to Spain’s medicine shortage, there’s no need to be overly anxious. You don’t need to bring a whole suitcase of medicine before coming to Spain. Packing some of your usual over-the-counter drugs for emergencies is sufficient. Has anyone else had trouble buying medicine? Feel free to share your experiences below!
