Costa Rica Pharmacy Guide: Medication Names Expats Need to Know in 2025
- Teresita Alfaro
- Nov 24, 2025
- 7 min read
You walk into a Costa Rica pharmacy with a pounding headache. You know exactly what you need — the same medication you've taken for 30 years back home. But when you ask for it, you're met with blank stares.
"No tenemos eso."
Sound familiar? You're not alone.
Every week, I receive calls from frustrated expats who can't find their medications in Costa Rica. The truth is: Costa Rica pharmacies have most of the medications you need — they just go by different names.
After 15+ years helping American and Canadian expats navigate healthcare in Costa Rica, I've compiled this comprehensive guide to help you find exactly what you need at any farmacia in the country.
Understanding How Costa Rica Pharmacies Work for Expats
Before we dive into specific medication names, let's understand how the Costa Rica pharmacy system differs from what you're used to in the United States or Canada.
Prescription Requirements in Costa Rica
One of the biggest surprises for expats is that many medications requiring a prescription in the US are available over-the-counter in Costa Rica. This includes blood pressure medications, sleeping aids, antidepressants, and birth control pills.
However, narcotics and controlled substances still require a prescription from a Costa Rican doctor. If you depend on these medications, plan accordingly before your move.
Costa Rica Pharmacy Prices Compared to the US
Here's some good news: prescription medications in Costa Rica cost approximately one-third to one-fourth of US prices. Generic medications are widely available and significantly cheaper than brand names.
For example:
A blood pressure medication that costs $150/month in the US might cost $40-50 in Costa Rica
Generic versions can reduce that cost even further
The public healthcare system (CAJA) provides many medications free to enrolled members
The Role of Pharmacists in Costa Rica Healthcare
Costa Rican pharmacists, known as farmacéuticos, play a much more active role in healthcare than their US counterparts. They can:
Recommend medications for minor ailments
Suggest generic alternatives to expensive brand names
Provide dosing instructions and drug interaction warnings
Sometimes prescribe certain medications directly
This makes your local farmacia an invaluable resource for managing everyday health concerns without a doctor's visit.
Common US Medication Names and Their Costa Rica Equivalents
Now, let's get to what you came here for: the actual medication translations. Below you'll find the most commonly requested medications by expats and exactly what to ask for at a Costa Rica pharmacy.
Pain Relievers and Fever Reducers
Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Tylenol | Acetaminofén |
Acetaminophen | Paracetamol |
Dolofín | |
Tabcin (cold/flu version) |
Expat pharmacy tip: If you say "Tylenol," some pharmacists will understand, but asking for "acetaminofén" gets you served faster. The generic name is universally recognized and typically cheaper.
Advil / Motrin (Ibuprofen)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Advil | Ibuprofeno |
Motrin | Motrin (sometimes available) |
Ibuprofen | Advil (sometimes available) |
Expat pharmacy tip: Ibuprofeno is available over-the-counter in 200mg, 400mg, and 600mg dosages. For 800mg tablets, you'll typically need a prescription from a local doctor.
Aleve (Naproxen)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Aleve | Naproxeno |
Naproxen | Flanax |
Apronax |
Expat pharmacy tip: Naproxen is excellent for inflammation and arthritis pain. It's widely available and affordable at most Costa Rica pharmacies.
Allergy Medications for Expats in Costa Rica
Living in a tropical climate means many expats experience new allergy symptoms. Here's what to ask for:
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Benadryl | Difenhidramina |
Diphenhydramine | Alergan |
Alergil |
Expat pharmacy tip: Difenhidramina causes drowsiness. If you need a non-drowsy option, ask for "Loratadina" instead.
Claritin / Zyrtec (Non-Drowsy Antihistamines)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Claritin | Loratadina |
Zyrtec | Cetirizina |
Allegra | Fexofenadina |
Expat pharmacy tip: These non-drowsy antihistamines are perfect for managing allergies while staying alert. All are available without prescription at any farmacia.
Digestive Medications Available in Costa Rica
Adjusting to new foods and water can cause digestive issues. Here's your guide to stomach medications in Costa Rica:
Pepto-Bismol
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Pepto-Bismol | Subsalicilato de Bismuto |
Peptobismol (sometimes available) | |
Bismutol |
Expat pharmacy tip: For stomach issues, also try "Sal de Andrews" — a popular local remedy that many Costa Ricans swear by for indigestion and hangovers.
Tums / Rolaids (Antacids)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Tums | Antiácido |
Rolaids | Calcio carbonato |
Mylanta | |
Alka-Seltzer |
Expat pharmacy tip: Simply say "algo para la acidez" (something for heartburn) and the pharmacist will show you all available options.
Imodium (Anti-Diarrheal)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Imodium | Loperamida |
Loperamide | Imodium (sometimes available) |
Expat pharmacy tip: Loperamida is essential to keep in your medicine cabinet, especially during your first months adapting to local foods and water.
Cold and Flu Medications in Costa Rica
Sudafed (Decongestant)
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
Sudafed | Pseudoefedrina |
Tabcin | |
Dristan |
Expat pharmacy tip: A local favorite is "Dombroxil Compuesto" — a Costa Rican medication for congestion that many expats say works better than anything available in the US. It's definitely worth trying!
NyQuil / DayQuil
What You Call It (US/Canada) | What to Ask for in Costa Rica |
NyQuil | Antigripal nocturno |
DayQuil | Antigripal |
Tabcin | |
Vick (various formulations) |
Expat pharmacy tip: Describe your symptoms to the pharmacist. They're experts at recommending the right combination medication for cold and flu relief.
Essential Spanish Phrases for Costa Rica Pharmacies
Even if you don't speak Spanish fluently, these phrases will help you communicate effectively at any farmacia:
Basic Requests
English | Spanish |
I need something for headache | Necesito algo para el dolor de cabeza |
I need something for stomach pain | Necesito algo para el dolor de estómago |
I need something for allergies | Necesito algo para las alergias |
I need something for a cold | Necesito algo para el resfriado |
I need something for fever | Necesito algo para la fiebre |
Important Questions to Ask
English | Spanish |
Do you have the generic version? | ¿Tiene el genérico? |
How many times a day? | ¿Cuántas veces al día? |
With or without food? | ¿Con o sin comida? |
Are there any side effects? | ¿Tiene efectos secundarios? |
Can I take this with my other medications? | ¿Puedo tomar esto con mis otros medicamentos? |
Medical Conditions
English | Spanish |
I'm allergic to... | Soy alérgico/a a... |
I have high blood pressure | Tengo presión alta |
I have diabetes | Tengo diabetes |
I'm pregnant | Estoy embarazada |
I'm breastfeeding | Estoy amamantando |
Five Expert Tips for Navigating Costa Rica Pharmacies as an Expat
After helping hundreds of expats with their healthcare needs, here are my top recommendations:
1. Learn Generic Medication Names
Generic names (acetaminofén, ibuprofeno, etc.) are universal and recognized worldwide. Brand names vary by country, but generics don't. Learning these names will serve you in Costa Rica and anywhere else you travel.
2. Keep a Medication List in Spanish
If you take regular medications, create a list with:
The US/Canadian brand name
The generic compound name
The dosage you take
How often you take it
Keep this list in your wallet and share it with your housekeeper, caregiver, or emergency contact. This prevents dangerous confusion and saves time at the pharmacy.
3. Build a Relationship with Your Local Pharmacist
Costa Rican pharmacists are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. Visit the same farmacia regularly, and they'll get to know your health needs. They can alert you to drug interactions, suggest alternatives when something is out of stock, and sometimes hold medications for you.
4. Compare Prices Between Pharmacies
Medication prices in Costa Rica can vary significantly between pharmacies. Popular chains include:
Farmacia Fischel — Wide selection, consistent quality
Farmacia La Bomba — Known for competitive prices
Farmacia Chavarría — Good service and selection
Walmart/Pricesmart pharmacies — Sometimes cheaper for common medications
Don't hesitate to ask for prices at multiple locations before purchasing expensive medications.
5. Consider Enrolling in CAJA
The Costa Rican public healthcare system (Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social) provides many medications free or at reduced cost to enrolled members. If you're a legal resident, enrolling in CAJA can significantly reduce your medication expenses.
When to Seek Medical Assistance in Costa Rica
While pharmacists can help with minor ailments, some situations require professional medical attention:
Symptoms lasting more than a few days
High fever that doesn't respond to medication
Severe pain or discomfort
Allergic reactions
Chronic condition management
Need for controlled substances or specialized medications
Don't hesitate to see a doctor when needed. Costa Rica has excellent healthcare facilities, and private doctor visits typically cost $50-100 — a fraction of US prices.
Free Resource: Medication Translation Cheat Sheet
Want a printable version of this medication guide to keep in your wallet or share with your caregiver?
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Need Personalized Medical Assistance in Costa Rica?
Finding the right medication is just one piece of the puzzle. What about:
Understanding what the doctor actually said during your appointment?
Navigating CAJA enrollment and appointments?
Getting prescriptions filled correctly?
Explaining your complete medical history in Spanish?
Having someone accompany you to important medical procedures?
That's exactly what I do.
As your Expat Senior Concierge, I provide comprehensive medical advocacy services including:
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Schedule Your Free 30-Minute Consultation
Let's discuss your healthcare needs and how I can help you navigate the Costa Rica medical system with confidence.
During this no-obligation call, we'll:
Review your current healthcare situation
Identify your biggest challenges
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WhatsApp: +506 7075-5307
Email: info@expatseniorcr.com
Website: expatseniorcr.com
Because your health is too important to get lost in translation.
About the Author
Tere is a fully bilingual Costa Rican (Tica) with experience managing British Embassy diplomatic residences and helping expats thrive in Costa Rica. She is the founder of Expat Senior Concierge, the only senior-focused concierge service with diplomatic experience in the country. Her mission is to serve as a cultural bridge between Costa Rican systems and expat needs, ensuring every client receives dignified, personalized support.
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