Tijuana Pharmacies and Other Shopping

Shopping in Tijuana: Pharmacies

Well-known for its busy main street and many landmarks, Tijuana is a popular destination for many tourists in Mexico. If you plan to do plenty of shopping in Tijuana, which is a border city, here’s what you need to know about Tijuana pharmacies.

Rules for Shopping at Tijuana Pharmacies

In Tijuana, you will find many pharmacies selling medications. At these pharmacies, you will be able to find muscle relaxants, Viagra, and even pain medications. If you want to buy pain medications you should bring a photocopy of a previous prescription or an empty bottle. This will make the process of buying medications much easier for you. However, some pharmacies won’t even ask you for a prescription at all.

Most medications are sold at far lower prices than in the United States. However, Tijuana pharmacies may sell painkillers at a slightly higher price. These pharmacies also sell generics if you want to save money. The generics are made in Mexico, India, and various countries of South America. Keep in mind that the generics may be somewhat weaker than the non-generic medications.

Recently, a few new rules have been put into effect in Tijuana and the rest of Mexico. A prescription is now needed for all antibiotics. However, at many pharmacies you can be issued a prescription on site.

Once you cross into Tijuana from the U.S., take and right and go to the closest McDonalds. There will be about a dozen pharmacies close to the McDonalds. If you have a prescription from the United States, take the prescription as it will likely help. Keep in mind that you need a passport or equivalent document to be able to return to the United States.

Beware of Shady Tactics

You want to be cautious of shady pharmacy tactics in Tijuana. In some cases, a pharmacy may quote you a certain price and end up making a mistake. If you have already agreed to purchase the medication, you may be required to pay extra.

Also, keep in mind that some pharmacies will stamp “medication dispensed” on the back of a prescription. If this occurs, you may not be able to use the prescription again to get more medication from another pharmacy. This forces you to get another prescription or go to the same pharmacy to get more medication even if you would rather go to another pharmacy that offers better products or service.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about shopping at Tijuana pharmacies.