If you’re used to NyQuil, getting sick in Spain can be frustrating at first. This post walks through how Spanish pharmacies work and how to get the help you need without all-in-one cold medicines.
Another thing to keep in mind is that there are many pharmacies that strongly encourage you to use herbal remedies in place of pharmaceuticals. In fact they bring these out first. I ran into this once when I had a terrible cold and even with the “medicine” I was not feeling better. I guess part of the blame was on me for not researching what was recommended to me but I hardly was in a condition to and when I eventually did, I found that it was just herbs / hope / wishes. The few times I’ve been back to a pharmacy since then, and I’m always pointed towards some herbal remedy, I politely pass and ask for something else. Also there always is the upsell when you are checking out… “don’t you also need……”
Good tip! I usually ask for a particular product by name and haven't yet just described symptoms. At our pharmacy, if I ask for Frenadol, for example, they will just hand it over. But I would bet if I said, "I have a runny nose, itchy eyes, etc.," I might get the herbal solution. Watch this space. It's gonna happen. 😅
Another thing to keep in mind is that there are many pharmacies that strongly encourage you to use herbal remedies in place of pharmaceuticals. In fact they bring these out first. I ran into this once when I had a terrible cold and even with the “medicine” I was not feeling better. I guess part of the blame was on me for not researching what was recommended to me but I hardly was in a condition to and when I eventually did, I found that it was just herbs / hope / wishes. The few times I’ve been back to a pharmacy since then, and I’m always pointed towards some herbal remedy, I politely pass and ask for something else. Also there always is the upsell when you are checking out… “don’t you also need……”
Good tip! I usually ask for a particular product by name and haven't yet just described symptoms. At our pharmacy, if I ask for Frenadol, for example, they will just hand it over. But I would bet if I said, "I have a runny nose, itchy eyes, etc.," I might get the herbal solution. Watch this space. It's gonna happen. 😅
I use Frenadol Complex as my replacement to Nyquil and Fluimucil Solución for congestion. Feel better soon.
Muchas gracias, and thank you for telling me what you use! I will give that a try next time.
So much respect and admiration. Feel better soon!
Gracias!