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How to Buy Medicines in China: A Complete Guide for Expats and Visitors
Summary: You have a headache. You need cold medicine. Or maybe you are holding a prescription and have no idea where the nearest pharmacy in China is. Whatever the situation, buying medicines in China is easier than most expats and visitors expect — once you know the three routes available to you: going to a hospital, visiting a physical pharmacy, or ordering from an online pharmacy.
Author: Carevia Published or updated: 2026 Read time: 8 min read
Editorial And Source Review
Editorial review: China Medical Info Editorial Team. Last content check: July 3, 2026. Educational scope, clarity, verification pathways, and safety disclaimers. Not clinical review, diagnosis, treatment guidance, legal advice, visa advice, or insurance advice.
Official Source Paths
Use these official sources to verify current rules, policies, services, or payment requirements before acting on this educational guide.
- National Health Commission - Official English-language public health, hospital, health policy, and service information.
- State Council health and policy resources - Official English-language public-service and policy resources for healthcare and living in China.
China has a well-developed pharmaceutical retail network. Major cities like Shanghai have thousands of licensed pharmacies, from large chain drug stores to small neighbourhood shops. Common over-the-counter (OTC) medicines — including pain relievers like ibuprofen, paracetamol equivalents of Tylenol, cold remedies, antihistamines, and digestive aids — are widely available without a prescription. However, antibiotics and many prescription drugs are strictly regulated and can only be dispensed with a valid prescription from a licensed doctor.
Option 1: Buy Medicine Through a Hospital
If your symptoms are serious, unfamiliar, or persistent, always see a doctor before buying anything. This is especially important for prescription drugs — antibiotics and many other medications cannot legally be purchased over the counter at pharmacies in China. The advantages of going through a hospital are significant: - Doctors diagnose accurately rather than relying on self-diagnosis - Many medicines require a formal prescription that only a licensed physician can issue - Most major hospitals have an in-house pharmacy (yaofang), so you can collect medication immediately after consultation Hospital pharmacies typically stock both Western medicines and traditional Chinese medicines. For expats in Shanghai, several hospitals also have international departments with English-speaking staff.
Option 2: Physical Pharmacies in China
For OTC medicines — pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, allergy tablets, digestive aids — a licensed pharmacy in China is your most convenient option. In Shanghai and other major cities, you will see chains such as Yifeng (益丰大药房), Guoda (国大药房), and Leiyunshang (雷允上). There is no CVS or Walgreens equivalent, but these local chains are just as well-stocked. Tips for buying safely at a physical pharmacy: - Check credentials — Only buy from pharmacies that display their business licence (营业执照) and whose pharmacist staff wear professional credentials badges - Describe symptoms clearly — Tell the pharmacist your specific symptoms rather than asking for a named drug. Use a translation app if there is a language barrier - 24-hour pharmacies — Many large pharmacies operate around the clock. Look for the 24小时 sign in the pharmacy window - Compare prices and keep receipts — Drug prices may vary between pharmacies. Always keep the invoice for insurance reimbursement
Option 3: Online Pharmacies in China
The China online pharmacy sector has grown dramatically. Platforms like Meituan (美团) now have dedicated pharmaceutical sections, allowing you to order OTC medicines and have them delivered — sometimes within 30 minutes. Tips for buying safely from a Chinese online pharmacy: - Verify platform credentials — Only use platforms displaying the Certificate for Internet Drug Information Services (互联网药品信息服务资格证书) and the Certificate for Internet Drug Transaction Services (互联网药品交易服务资格证书). If these are absent, do not purchase - OTC only — Online pharmacies are legally permitted to sell OTC medicines only. Be cautious of any platform that offers prescription medication without requiring documentation - Avoid online advertisements — Stick to established, licensed stores and do not trust sponsored ads or unverified product recommendations - Check the medicine when it arrives — Always verify the drug name, production date, and expiration date before taking anything. If there is any discrepancy or damage, notify the delivery person immediately
Summary
Buying medicines in China is straightforward as long as you use the right channel. For serious symptoms or prescription drugs, go to a hospital. For everyday OTC needs, a licensed pharmacy will have everything you need. For convenience, a reputable online pharmacy is a fast and increasingly popular option. Always check credentials, keep your receipts, and verify medication details before use.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, treatment guidance, emergency triage, referral, or appointment booking. Verify current hospital procedures directly with hospitals and consult qualified healthcare professionals for medical decisions.