Pharmacies

Pharmacy or drugstore?

In the Netherlands you are likely to see two different sorts of pharmacy/drugstore. One is a dispensing pharmacy (where you can get prescribed medication) and is called an apotheek. The other is a drugstore, or drogisterij, and sells over-the-counter products like painkillers, vitamins, and first aid items.

How the pharmacy works

If your GP or specialist has prescribed you medication, you will need to head to an apotheek. Your first time at the pharmacy will involve signing up as a patient, and providing the details of both your health insurance and your GP.

Most pharmacies are open on weekdays and occasionally on Saturday.

You should go to the same pharmacy every time you need to pick up medication. Depending on the medication you need, your insurance may automatically pay for it. In other cases, you may need to pay a small price out of your own pocket.

Dutch pharmacies must provide you with the cheapest option of the medicine to avoid unnecessary costs.

If you are starting with new medication, pharmacy staff will be able to provide you with usage instructions. If you took medication in a different country, it is best to have your GP decide whether you should continue with these or switch to a different brand.

Over-the-counter medication

There is a great variety of every day medication available in drugstores and supermarkets. You do not need a prescription to buy any of these, such as regular painkillers, flu medication or cough syrup. Sales representatives generally have had training about the medication available at their drug stores and can advise you to pick the right product.

Emergency pharmacy

If you need immediate access to your medication in evenings or weekends, you can contact the following emergency pharmacies. Some also have a prescription vending machine available for out-of-hours pickups.

The Hague

• Emergency Pharmacy The Hague: +31 (0)70 210 1465 - Charlotte Jacobslaan 10, 2545 AB The Hague
• SMASH: +31 (0)70 346 96 69 - President Kennedylaan 15, 2517 JK The Hague

Delft

• Poli-apotheek Reinier de Graaf: +31 (0)15 212 5760 - Reinier de Graafweg 5, 2625 AD Delft

Rijswijk

• SMASH: +31 (0)70 346 96 69 - President Kennedylaan 15, 2517 JK The Hague

Leidschendam-Voorburg

• SMASH: +31 (0)70 346 96 69 - President Kennedylaan 15, 2517 JK The Hague
• Apotheek Antoniushoeve (until 22.00 hrs): +31 (0)70 444 0444  - Burgemeester Banninglaan 3, 2262 BA Leidschendam

You may also be interested in our information on Dutch health insurance, General Practitioners, the Dutch healthcare system; or hospitals.