Prescriptions in Jamaica – Montego Bay Forum

Prescriptions in Jamaica.
Can you buy perscription "over the counter" meds in Jamaica ( like you can in Mexico? ) or should we get an antibiotic script before we go?? (In case we get sick while there)
Nothing like Mexico. If you think you are going to need something, get it and take it with you.
are you sick now? or are you thinking you might an antibiotic while traveling?
I don't think a dr ( well, any decent dr) is going to give an rx "just in case" you get sick.
And no, you can't buy anitibiotics OTC.
"I don't think a dr ( well, any decent dr) is going to give an rx "just in case" you get sick. "
actually many doctors can and will help those who have ongoing issues. say you have a history of repeat ear infections or something along those lines. when i went anywhere with my son as a baby i always had some antibotics handy. even if it was just for the weekend.
that said, i don't think a doctor will write a script for some random illness that you may happen contract.
Actually, it's more common than you think. For people traveling overseas (outside the US), many doctors will write a scrip for a broad spectrum antibiotic such a Cipro along with guidelines as to how to determine the potential of contracting a bacterial infection.
But who gets a Cipro script and tries to fill it in another country?
The point is to take it with you. And Jamaica is not exactly one of the places the needs an emergency broad spectrum antiobiotic on the "must pack" list.
When I was in Jamaica in December I developed a sinus infection and needed a doctor. The nurse at Secrets was $40 just to see her, and if I needed an antibiotic, she would refer me to a doctor, who would be more money. While I know this may not be the way some people would do it, I asked a driver that we have used before if he knew a doctor who would give me an antibiotic, I knew it was a sinus infection and knew exactly what I needed. He called a friend who spoke to me on the phone and said have Wayne bring you to my office. Off we went to his office, and when I was walking in, I noticed it was a gynecologist he was taking me to. I pointed out to him this was not the area I needed examined, but he told me, "no problem, mon." He was right, the doctor gave me the prescription and off we went. I tried to give the doctor money and he wouldn't take it from me. For the record, it was only $12 to fill the prescription, which I'm sure would have been more in the States.
I guess the point to the story is that the Jamaicans are awesome people, they will help you if you need help, even the housekeeper at the hotel was bringing me tea and cookies and checking on me, so don't spend time worrying about something that doesn't exist. Plan on having a wonderful vacation and I'm sure you will!
Better to Have and not need, then to Need and not have. If the Dr. will give you a script, fill it and pack it. Peace of mind.
Keep in mind that all the meds that can be found in the drug stores abroad are not necessarily going to be available in Jamaica. I have gone to pick up prescriptions on more than one occasion & they have were out of or could not get what was prescribed.
I pack EVERYTHING under the sun when I go. My hubby jokes I am a walking pharmacy. I am prepared. One year I did get a bladder infection and was darn glad I had some antibiotics!
My daughter has had a bad winter with repeat ear infections and strep throat. I am so worried we will leave for Jamaica and one of these will show up after we get there. I am taking precautions to keep her out of daycare the week leading up to our trip, but even that might not be enough. I am wondering if I should see if the doctor will give us a perscription just in case or if I should just take our chances? Would seeing a doctor and filling an antibiotics perscription be difficult in Negril?