Pharmacies and medicines in Norway

Medicines in Norway are mainly sold through pharmacies (apotek).

Many medicines require a prescription from a doctor. Some medicines can be purchased without a prescription, depending on the medicine and applicable rules.

Prescriptions are normally electronic. When your doctor creates an electronic prescription, the pharmacy can access it through the Norwegian prescription system.

If you are already taking medicine from another country, bring the medicine packaging or information about the medicine to your Norwegian doctor. The doctor can assess whether you need the same medicine or an equivalent treatment available in Norway.

A foreign prescription cannot normally be used directly in Norway. You may need a prescription from a Norwegian doctor.

At the pharmacy, you may need to provide identification and other information required to retrieve your prescription.

You normally pay for prescription medicines at the pharmacy. Some medicines may qualify for reimbursement through the Norwegian healthcare system, for example medicines prescribed on a blue prescription (blå resept) when the applicable conditions are met.

The amount you pay depends on the medicine, the prescription type and the reimbursement rules.

Ask the pharmacist if you do not understand how to use a medicine or when you should take it.

Always follow the instructions from your doctor and the information provided with the medicine.

Do not stop or change important prescription medication without first discussing it with a doctor or pharmacist.

If you have questions about whether a particular medicine is available in Norway, ask a pharmacy or your doctor.

If you cannot afford necessary healthcare or medicines, you may be able to get help from NAV depending on your situation.

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