Medication & Pharmacies

Bringing Medication to the Netherlands

The Netherlands follows EU and Schengen rules for personal medication. Here is what you need to know before you pack.

• Keep medication in its original packaging. Dutch customs agents may ask to identify your medication. Having it in the original box with the pharmacy label makes this straightforward.
• Bring your prescription or a doctor's letter. Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor listing the medication name (use the generic/chemical name, not just the brand name), dosage, and reason for use.
• Controlled substances require extra documentation. For strong painkillers, ADHD medication, benzodiazepines, or other controlled drugs, bring a signed letter from your doctor on official letterhead. The letter should be in English (or Dutch, if possible) and include your name, the drug name, dosage, and medical reason. For travelers from within the Schengen area, a Schengen certificate signed by a health authority in your home country is recommended.
• Quantity limit. You may bring up to three months' supply of personal medication into the Netherlands.

Dutch Pharmacies (Apotheek)

Pharmacies in the Netherlands are called apotheek (plural: apotheken). They are recognizable by a green cross sign on the building facade.

Dutch pharmacists are trained to advise on minor health issues and can recommend over-the-counter treatments for colds, pain, allergies, digestive problems, and minor injuries. You do not need a doctor's visit for these basic needs.

Important Distinction: Apotheek vs. Drogist

The Netherlands has two types of stores that sell health products:

• Apotheek (pharmacy) - Dispenses prescription medication and regulated over-the-counter drugs. Staffed by licensed pharmacists.
• Drogist (drugstore, e.g., Kruidvat, Etos) - Sells non-prescription items like vitamins, basic painkillers (paracetamol/ibuprofen), skincare, and hygiene products. No pharmacist on staff. Does not fill prescriptions.

Opening Hours

Most apotheken in Amsterdam are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, and Saturday until around 5:00 PM. Some pharmacies in busy areas have extended hours, closing at 9:00 or 10:00 PM. Most are closed on Sundays.

Emergency Pharmacies (Dienstapotheek)

Outside regular hours (nights, weekends, and public holidays), duty pharmacies (dienstapotheek) operate on a rotating schedule to handle urgent prescriptions.

• To find the nearest open pharmacy: Call 020 592 33 15 (the Amsterdam pharmacy information line). This number tells you which pharmacy is currently on duty.
• Check the door of any closed pharmacy. A notice will list the nearest open duty pharmacy.
• Hospital pharmacy: OLVG hospital (locations in Oost and West Amsterdam) has a 24-hour pharmacy for emergency prescriptions.

Prescription Rules for Tourists

How you get prescription medication in the Netherlands depends on where you are from:

• EU/EEA citizens: A prescription from a doctor in another EU or EEA country is valid at Dutch pharmacies. The pharmacist may verify it and may substitute an equivalent Dutch brand if your exact brand is unavailable.
• Non-EU visitors (US, Canada, Australia, etc.): A prescription from outside the EU is not valid in the Netherlands. If you run out of medication, you will need to visit a Dutch doctor (huisarts) or a walk-in clinic (huisartsenpost) to get a new Dutch prescription. This costs approximately 30-50 euros for the consultation, plus the cost of the medication.
• Over-the-counter alternatives: Basic painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen), antihistamines, and cough/cold remedies are available without a prescription at any apotheek or drogist.

Medical Supplies

Standard apotheken carry basic medical supplies (bandages, antiseptics, thermometers). For specialized supplies:

• Catheters and ostomy supplies: Ask at a larger apotheek or contact a medical supply company. Bring enough supplies from home for your entire trip, as brands and sizes may differ.
• Respiratory equipment (CPAP, nebulizers): Specialized medical equipment suppliers can help. Contact your hotel in advance to confirm they can provide an extension cord or bedside outlet for CPAP use.
• Basic mobility aids: Some pharmacies sell walking canes, crutches, and compression stockings. For wheelchairs and scooters, see our Equipment Rentals page.

Health Insurance

EU/EEA Citizens

Bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card gives you access to state-provided healthcare at the same cost as Dutch residents. You may need to pay upfront and claim reimbursement.

UK Citizens

Bring your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). It works similarly to the EHIC. Travel insurance is still recommended as backup.

Non-EU Visitors

You need travel insurance that covers medical expenses in the Netherlands. The Netherlands does not have reciprocal healthcare agreements with most non-EU countries. Without insurance, medical care is expensive. A doctor's visit costs 30-50 euros, emergency room visits can cost several hundred euros, and hospital stays are priced accordingly.