Pharmacies in Panama
In Panama, several pharmacy chains offer a range of products and services to meet the healthcare needs of residents and visitors. Below is an overview of some of the most important pharmacies in Panama:
Largest Country-Wide Chains
Arrocha
Arrocha is one of the largest and most established pharmacy chains in Panama, offering a wide selection of health and wellness products beyond prescription medications. Stores vary in size, with larger locations functioning as full-scale department stores, carrying cosmetics, personal care items, baby products, household goods, and even electronics. Many locations also offer additional services such as passport photos, printing, and basic medical equipment. The pharmacy section provides both local and international medications, catering to a broad customer base. Arrocha’s reputation for well-organized stores, reliable service, and an extensive product range makes it a preferred choice for many shoppers across Panama.
Metro Plus
Metro Plus is a pharmacy chain affiliated with the El Rey supermarket group, operating both within El Rey stores and as standalone locations. They offer a variety of pharmaceutical products, health and beauty items, and prepared foods. Metro Plus emphasizes convenience and accessibility, with multiple branches across the country. Delivery options are offered through the TipTi App.
Farmacias Revilla
Farmacias Revilla is a high-end pharmacy chain in Panama, providing a selection of medications, health products, and personal care items. They also offer beverages, snacks, hair care products, and perfumes. Known for their personalized and friendly service, Farmacias Revilla has multiple locations, particularly in Chiriquí and Panama City.
Smaller Pharmacy Chains with Notable Service Options
Farma Ahorro
Farma Ahorro is a pharmacy chain in Panama offering a range of pharmaceutical products and health services. They provide health plans and accept various payment methods, including digital vouchers. Farma Ahorro focuses on accessibility and customer service, with multiple locations across the country.
Farmacias El Javillo
Farmacias El Javillo is a pharmacy chain in Panama offering a variety of health and wellness products. They provide services such as home delivery and have an app for convenient ordering. Notably, their Rio Abajo location features a drive-through pharmacy, enhancing accessibility for customers.
https://farmaciaseljavillo.com/
Most Affordable Options
Farmacia Saba
Farmacia Saba gives the feel of a direct-to-consumer brand approach, with their orange-green, distinctive branding. They offer medications at competitive prices and have several locations outside Panama City, including in Penonomé, Aguadulce, and Chitré. While their presence is more limited compared to larger chains, they are recognized for affordability.
https://www.instagram.com/farmaciasaba.pa/
Farma Value
Farma Value, a chain active in 8 Latin american countries, operates with a focus on affordability, providing essential medications in a straightforward, warehouse-style setting. Their stores are primarily located in the metropolitan area of Panama City, catering to customers seeking budget-friendly pharmaceutical options.
PriceSmart
PriceSmart, a membership-based warehouse club, includes a pharmacy department offering medications at competitive prices. While their locations are limited outside Panama City, with branches in Santiago and David, they provide cost-effective options for bulk purchasing of pharmaceuticals and other goods.
Independent Pharmacies in Panama
Across Panama, independent pharmacies operate in both rural villages and urban centers, providing essential medications and healthcare products. In small towns, these pharmacies are often family-run businesses with a limited selection of prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicine, and basic personal care items. Larger independent pharmacies in cities may carry a wider range of medications, supplements, and even minor medical equipment. Many offer personalized service, with pharmacists providing advice and recommendations tailored to the local community’s needs. While independent pharmacies may not always have the same pricing or promotions as larger chains, they remain an accessible option for those in areas without major pharmacy brands. Searching on Google Maps is the easiest way to locate these pharmacies, as availability varies by region.
Services offered
Many pharmacies in Panama offer delivery services upon request, enhancing convenience for customers. For instance, Farmacias El Javillo provides home delivery and may be available through platforms like PedidosYa. Others have their own delivery services but need to be called by phone or within a separate app like Metro Plus. Additionally, services such as passport photos and photocopying are commonly available at various pharmacy locations, adding to their utility as one-stop shops for multiple needs.
10% discount for retirees
In Panama, individuals holding a pensionado status or those aged over 55 for women and over 60 for men, possessing a Panamanian e-cedula (ID card), are entitled to a 10% discount on all medications sold at pharmacies (as stipulated in Law No. 18, of August 7 1989, published in Gaceta Oficial No 21368). Some pharmacies may offer additional promotional discounts for seniors at various times of the year. Read about all other advantages that come with retiring in Panama here.
You might also be interested in reading about accessing prescription medications in Panama.
