Spanish phrases for the pharmacy
Quick answer
At a Spanish pharmacy say what hurts with “Me duele …” (my … hurts) or “Tengo …” (I have …), then ask “¿Tiene algo para …?” (do you have something for …?). Look for the green cross; at night the “farmacia de guardia” is the one that stays open.
Saying what’s wrong
| Spanish | English | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Me duele la cabeza. | I have a headache. | me duele = it hurts me |
| Me duele la garganta. | I have a sore throat. | |
| Me duele el estómago. | I have a stomach ache. | |
| Tengo tos. | I have a cough. | |
| Tengo fiebre. | I have a fever. | |
| Estoy constipado. / Estoy constipada. | I have a cold. | not constipated! |
| Soy alérgico a la penicilina. | I’m allergic to penicillin. | alérgica for a woman |
Asking the pharmacist
| Spanish | English | When to use it |
|---|---|---|
| ¿Tiene algo para la tos? | Do you have something for a cough? | usted is normal here |
| ¿Necesito receta? | Do I need a prescription? | |
| ¿Cada cuántas horas? | How often (every how many hours)? | |
| ¿Antes o después de comer? | Before or after meals? | |
| ¿Dónde está la farmacia de guardia? | Where is the duty pharmacy? | open at night and on holidays |
| ¿Dónde está la farmacia? | Where is the pharmacy? |
Good to know
- Spanish pharmacists give real advice for small problems; ask them before looking for a doctor.
- Many medicines that are on the shelf elsewhere (some antibiotics, stronger painkillers) need a prescription in Spain.
- The list of duty pharmacies is posted on every pharmacy door.
- In an emergency call 112.
Questions people ask
How do you say “I have a headache” in Spanish?
“Me duele la cabeza.” For other pains, change the body part: me duele la garganta, me duele el estómago.
What is a farmacia de guardia?
The duty pharmacy that stays open at night, on Sundays and on holidays. Every pharmacy posts the list on its door.
Do I need a prescription in a Spanish pharmacy?
For antibiotics and many stronger medicines, yes. Ask “¿Necesito receta?”.
How do you say “I have a cold” in Spanish?
“Estoy constipado/a” or “Estoy resfriado/a.”