Asthma Inhalers availability/cost

[nina29]

Hello all,

Apologies if this is a stupid question but how easily available are asthmas inhalers (salamol, seretide) without a prescription? Would I need to register with a doctor? Is this an expensive process? I really have no idea about private healthcare having only experience with the NHS!

I will be arriving next month for one year to study/travel and I would just bring what I need with me but would probably take up much of my baggage allowance!

Thanks,
Nina

 

[Nova]

Hello all,

Apologies if this is a stupid question but how easily available are asthmas inhalers (salamol, seretide) without a prescription? Would I need to register with a doctor? Is this an expensive process? I really have no idea about private healthcare having only experience with the NHS!

I will be arriving next month for one year to study/travel and I would just bring what I need with me but would probably take up much of my baggage allowance!

Thanks,
Nina

I've been to several pharmacies (mom & pop) variety and never had any problem purchasing a Seretide Diskus 250/50 (Advair diskus in the US) without a prescription. As long as you don't go to the larger pharmacy chains you will not need one for this medication. It runs about US$45 for a one month's supply, $5 cheaper than what I paid in the US with insurance. So you don't need to stock up. As for rescue inhalers I couldn't help you there. I've never purchased one here but I would imagine as long as you know the equivalent US drug you can get it as well.

 

[PhilipDT]

I didn't have any problem purchasing albuterol here without a prescription. I had some difficulty getting epipens though, had to see a doctor.

 

[luismarcos]

my personal opinion as an asthmatic living here for a long time: see a good specialist called a "neumonologo"...my favorite is Dr Prieto of Hospital Aleman (he speaks English well) and splurge for the visit if you are not on a health plan...he is a really caring doctor

if you already know what you need maybe VENTOLIN-- this is my rescue inhaler and not hard to find...look for places that give discounts....one that i like is on uruguay and cordoba...discount for cash

 

[Roxana]

You can buy a generic brand of salbutamol for $20 (pesos argentinos) over the counter. I also strongly recommend you to visit a medical doctor specialist. A visit to a medical doctor without a local health insurance costs around $150 (pesos argentinos). I think a visit to a doctor at Hospital Aleman is at the same price range.