Medication and Prescriptions

Traveling with Medication

Bringing your medication to Germany requires some planning, especially for controlled substances. German customs and pharmacy regulations differ from other countries, and being prepared will prevent problems at the border and during your stay.

General Rules for Bringing Medication

For most prescription and over-the-counter medication:

• Carry medication in its original packaging with the pharmacy label intact
• Bring a letter from your prescribing doctor listing your medications, dosages, and the medical conditions they treat
• Carry enough for your entire trip plus a buffer of 7 to 10 extra days in case of travel delays
• Pack medication in your carry-on luggage, never in checked bags
• Split your supply between two bags if possible, in case one is lost

Schengen Area Rules for Controlled Substances

Germany is part of the Schengen Area. If you take controlled substances (opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, or other narcotics), additional rules apply:

Traveling from Another Schengen Country

You need a Schengen certificate, issued by the health authority in your home country. This certificate:

• Must be signed and stamped by a competent health authority (not just your doctor)
• Is valid for 30 days
• Covers up to 30 days' supply of medication
• Must list each controlled medication, dosage, and duration
• Must be carried with you at all times during your trip

Traveling from Outside the Schengen Area

You need:

• A doctor's letter (ideally in English and German) listing your medications and why you need them
• A certificate from your national health authority if possible
• The prescription in your name
• No more than 30 days' supply is generally permitted

The Apotheke (Pharmacy) System

German pharmacies (Apotheken) are easy to identify by the red "A" sign, often illuminated and visible from the street. They are well-stocked and staffed by trained pharmacists who can provide advice.

Key Differences from Other Countries

• Prescription requirements: Many medications that are over-the-counter in other countries require a prescription in Germany, including some anti-inflammatory drugs and allergy medications.
• No pharmacy sections in supermarkets: You cannot buy any medication in grocery stores. All medication, including basic pain relievers like ibuprofen, must be purchased at an Apotheke.
• Pharmacist consultation: German pharmacists are trained to advise on medication and can suggest alternatives if you need something similar to what you take at home.
• Brand names differ: The same medication may be sold under different brand names in Germany. Know your medication's generic (active ingredient) name.

Accessibility of Pharmacies

Most Berlin pharmacies are at street level with step-free entry. Larger pharmacies in shopping centers and train stations are reliably accessible. If a pharmacy has steps, the pharmacist will usually come to the door to serve you or provide assistance.

Finding an Emergency Pharmacy (Notdienstapotheke)

German pharmacies rotate night and weekend duty. When you need medication outside regular hours:

• Check the door: Every pharmacy displays a sign listing the nearest pharmacies on night duty
• Call 0800 00 22 833: Free number for finding the nearest open pharmacy
• Visit apotheken.de: Website and app that shows pharmacies currently on duty near you
• Ask your hotel: Reception staff can help you find the nearest open pharmacy

Emergency pharmacies charge a small surcharge (about 2.50 euros) for after-hours service in addition to the medication cost.

Common Medications and German Equivalents

Medical Supplies

If you need medical supplies during your stay:

• Sanitätshaus (medical supply store): These stores carry mobility aids, wound care supplies, compression stockings, and other medical products. They are found throughout Berlin.
• Apotheke: Pharmacies carry basic medical supplies like bandages, syringes, and wound care products.
• Online ordering: Shop-apotheke.com and DocMorris deliver within Berlin, usually within 1 to 2 business days.

Health Insurance

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)

If you are from an EU or EEA country, your EHIC (or the newer European Health Insurance Card) entitles you to the same medical care as German residents at the same cost. Bring your card.

Travel Insurance

If you are from outside the EU, comprehensive travel insurance with medical coverage is essential. Germany has excellent healthcare, but costs for uninsured visitors can be high. Make sure your policy covers:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Prescription medications
• Medical equipment replacement or repair
• Medical evacuation if needed
• Pre-existing conditions (if applicable)

Practical Tips

• Carry a medication list in your wallet or phone with generic names, dosages, and your doctor's contact information.
• If you use a medication pump, feeding tube, or other medical device, bring spare parts and supplies.
• Temperature-sensitive medication: Berlin summers can be warm (up to 35 degrees Celsius). Bring an insulated bag for medication that requires cool storage.
• Learn the phrase "Ich brauche dieses Medikament" (Ikh BROW-khuh DEE-zes meh-dee-kah-MENT), meaning "I need this medication."