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- Source: Andorran official bodies
- Last updated: 2026-05-26
The pharmacies in Andorra They are one of the favorite destinations for Spanish and French visitors. With the IGI (Andorran tax) on 4.5% instead of the VAT of 21% Thanks to the tax Spain applies to medicines, savings can reach up to 501% on some products. We explain what you can buy, where, and what the limits are.
Why are medicines cheaper in Andorra?
There are two main reasons:
- Taxation: Andorra applies the IGI (General Indirect Tax) at 4.5% on medicines. In Spain, the pharmaceutical VAT is 21% for parapharmaceuticals and 10% for most medicines (4% for those considered essential). The difference is significant.
- European regulation: Andorra is not subject to EU pharmaceutical price regulation, which allows laboratories to set more competitive prices for the Andorran market.
The result: prescription drugs 30–50% cheaper and over-the-counter and parapharmaceutical products 20–40% more economical than in Spain or France.
What you can buy without a prescription in Andorra (that requires a prescription in Spain)
Andorran pharmacies have a more liberal policy than Spanish pharmacies regarding over-the-counter medications. With the pharmacist's advice, it is possible to obtain:
- Sildenafil (generic Viagra): It's legal without a prescription, ID is required, and there's a quantity limit. Price: from €10–15 per tablet compared to €20–25 in Spain with a prescription.
- Selective antibiotics: Some broad-spectrum antibiotics can be dispensed with a pharmacist's consultation for common infections (urological, respiratory).
- High-dose anti-inflammatories: ibuprofen 600/800mg and diclofenac in presentations that require a prescription in Spain.
- High concentration antihistamines: For severe allergies, 20mg presentations are available, which are prescription-only in Spain.
- Some vaginal antifungals: treatments that in Spain require a medical visit.
Important: Andorran pharmacists are very well trained and do not sell medications without a prior consultation. If they have any doubts about your case, they will still ask for a prescription.
What does require a prescription in Andorra?
Just like in other countries:
- Powerful opioids (morphine, oxycodone, tramadol at high doses)
- Benzodiazepines (diazepam, alprazolam, etc.)
- Controlled substances of the Convention on Psychotropic Substances
- Hospital-use medications
- Long-term chronic treatments (insulin, anticoagulants)
The products most purchased by tourists
| Product | Estimated price in Andorra | Estimated price in Spain | Approximate savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltaren gel 100g | ~6 € | ~10 € | 40% |
| Aerius 20 tablets (desloratadine) | ~5 € | ~8 € | 37% |
| Systane eye drops | ~8 € | ~13 € | 38% |
| Omega 3 500mg x60 | ~9 € | ~15 € | 40% |
| Vitamin C facial serum 30ml | ~12 € | ~20 € | 40% |
| Ibuprofen 600mg x40 | ~4 € | ~7 € | 43% |
| Sensodyne toothpaste | ~3,5 € | ~5,5 € | 36% |
Indicative prices 2026. May vary depending on the pharmacy.
Limits on bringing medicines into Spain
When crossing back into Spain from Andorra, Spanish customs may carry out checks. The general rules are:
- Personal use: you can bring up to 3 months supply for routine treatments.
- Prescription medications: It is advisable to bring the medical prescription or a doctor's report justifying the use.
- Controlled substances: Never without a prescription or supporting documentation. Customs may confiscate the goods and there may be penalties.
- Pharmacy and supplements: There is no specific quantitative limit for reasonable personal use.
In practice, routine checks focus on tobacco and alcohol (the items with the largest tax differential). Medicines are rarely seized unless the quantities are clearly commercial.
How many pharmacies are there in Andorra and what are their opening hours?
Andorra has approximately 60 pharmacies for a population of 80,000 inhabitants — a density far exceeding the European average. They are distributed across the 7 parishes, with the highest concentration in Andorra la Vella and Escaldes.
Regular hours: 9:00–13:00 and 15:00–19:30, Monday to Saturday. Some establishments in tourist areas are open until 20:00 or 20:30.
On-call pharmacy: The on-call system ensures that there is always at least one pharmacy open outside of regular hours. The on-call schedule is posted on the door of every pharmacy and on the website of the Andorran College of Pharmacists.
Pharmacies
In addition to traditional pharmacies, Andorra has numerous parapharmacies (Parapharmacies) where cosmetics with active ingredients, dietary supplements, personal hygiene products, and skincare products are sold. These stores have even lower prices than pharmacies for parapharmacy products and do not require the presence of a licensed pharmacist.
Brands such as La Roche-Posay, Vichy, SVR or Avène can be found at outlet prices in Andorran parapharmacies.
Frequently asked questions about pharmacies in Andorra
Are medicines cheaper in Andorra than in Spain?
Yes, between 20 and 50% cheaper depending on the product, thanks to the IGI of 4.5% compared to the Spanish VAT of 21%.
What can I buy without a prescription in Andorra?
Sildenafil, certain antibiotics with pharmacist consultation, high-dose anti-inflammatories, high-concentration antihistamines, and more.
Can I bring medication from Andorra to Spain?
Yes, for personal use, up to a 3-month supply. Bring your prescription if it's a prescription medication.
Where are the pharmacies in Andorra and when do they open?
Approximately 60 pharmacies, mostly in Andorra la Vella and Escaldes. Opening hours: 9:00–13:00 and 15:00–19:30. The pharmacy on night duty is indicated on the door of each pharmacy.
You may also be interested in: Shopping in Andorra: what to buy and prices | What to see in Andorra la Vella
- Govern d’Andorra — pharmaceutical regulation in Andorra
- Spanish Tax Agency — import limits on medicines
Last updated: 2026-05-26
