Pharmacies & Healthcare Stores
Upon arriving in the Netherlands, it's always a good idea to familiarise yourself with where your nearest place to get medicines is located.
Pharmacies
Once you have registered at a GP in the Netherlands, you will usually have a choice of several nearby pharmacies from which your prescription medicine can be picked up from. In most cities, you can choose the pharmacy that is most convenient for you and opt to have your prescriptions sent there by default. You can find your nearest pharmacy by using the Apotheek search tool (in Dutch) and putting your postcode into the search bar.
Use 'Apotheek' To Find Your Nearest Pharmacy
Healthcare Stores
As well as pharmacies, there are also numerous other healthcare stores throughout the Netherlands that may be able to provide you with basic medication, ranging from paracetamol to mild allergy medication. These healthcare stores often stock many other daily essentials, such as shampoo, hairbrushes, and toothbrushes. You can often even buy some chocolates or other snacks there too!
There are several major chains of healthcare stores in the Netherlands. Below you can find more information about the most common ones, as well as about pharmacies in general.
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Etos
Etos
Originally once also a supermarket, Etos now has more than 500 stores throughout the Netherlands focused on healthcare and non-prescription medication. In Etos, you can find a variety of different medication such as cough syrups, allergy medications, vitamins and supplements, toiletries, make-up, and skincare products. Additionally, you can find childcare products at Etos, including baby food, diapers, and baby formula. They also have a small selection of food, such as chocolates and biscuits.
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Kruidvat
Kruidvat
One of Etos's biggest competitors, Kruidvat has almost 1250 stores throughout the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. Kruidvat's stores offer a range of products, including allergy medication, childcare products, toiletries, and even some clothes. They regularly have special deals (acties in Dutch), with their motto being Steeds verrassend, altijd voordelig ("always surprising, always affordable"). You also have the option to print your digital photographs in Kruidvat.
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Trekpleister
Trekpleister
Trekpleister has more than 200 branches throughout the Netherlands. Trekpleister stores offer a selection of non-prescription medicine (including allergy medication and paracetamol), as well as toiletries, and vitamins and supplements. The stores also offer a packing and dry cleaning service.
