Pharmacies in Panama: What to Know
- Brownie
- Dec 30, 2025
- 2 min read
Whether you’re picking up sunscreen, need prescription medication, or just looking for a good after-bite remedy, Panama’s pharmacies are surprisingly well-stocked and easy to navigate—even if your Spanish isn’t perfect.
There are a few main pharmacy chains to know, as well as small in-store counters inside grocery stores. Here’s what to expect:
1. Metro Plus
You’ll mainly find Metro Plus locations around Panama City, though there are a few in other parts of the country. These are smaller, convenience-style pharmacies where you can pop in for essentials like:
Over-the-counter meds
Prescription refills (bring a photo or screenshot of what you’re looking for)
Toiletries like shampoo, lotion, and toothpaste
Small snacks, stationery, and personal care items
Metro Plus locations around Panama City
2. Arrocha
This is the most well-known and widespread pharmacy chain in Panama. Arrocha stores are generally larger and carry a broader range of products. You’ll find them throughout the country in cities and resort areas.
Inside an Arrocha, you can expect:
A full pharmacy with helpful staff
Sunblock, skincare, makeup, and hair care items
Hats, pool toys, and water bottles (great for travelers!)
Books in Spanish for kids and adults
Some household goods and travel items
You don’t need a prescription for everything here. For example, it’s common to buy topical retinoids, some antibiotics, and antihistamines directly from the pharmacist. Just bring a screenshot or photo of the medication you’re looking for—they’ll let you know if they carry it and what it costs.
Prices for prescription medications are typically much lower than in the U.S., even without insurance.
3. Other Pharmacies & Grocery Store Counters
Some grocery store chains have built-in pharmacies, especially larger stores like Super 99 or Riba Smith. While the selection is usually smaller, they’re still good for common medications and personal care items.
Bonus Tip: After-Bite Care
One thing I always look for in Panamanian pharmacies? Mosquito bite patches.
They’re small adhesive stickers—sold in boxes like pimple patches—that you place directly over a bite (picadura in Spanish). I don’t know what’s in them, but they really help with the itch, especially in tropical areas where bites can be relentless. Great for travel kits or kids!
Whether you’re staying in the city or heading out to the beach, having access to a local pharmacy makes life easier. And with lower prices and easy service, it’s one of the many conveniences I love about traveling in Panama.
