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Buying Medicine in Georgia 2026 | Pharmacy Guide & OTC Drugs
Everything you need to know about buying medicine in Georgia: major pharmacy chains, drugs available without prescription, price comparisons, and what you can bring back to Turkey.
Georgia has become a popular destination not only for tourism but also for healthcare and pharmacy shopping, particularly among Turkish visitors. Pharmacies are everywhere in Tbilisi, major chains operate 24 hours a day, and prices are significantly lower than in Turkey. Here is everything you need to know before buying medicine in Georgia.
Georgia's Pharmacy System
The pharmacy sector in Georgia is dominated by private chains. Competition has kept prices low and availability high. PSP Pharmacy, Pharmadepot, GPC, and ABC Pharmacy are the most widespread chains.
- Every neighbourhood in Tbilisi has at least one pharmacy.
- Major chains have 24-hour branches.
- The vast majority of medicines are sold without a prescription.
- Pharmacists generally do not speak Turkish — use English or international drug names (active ingredient names).
Drugs Requiring Prescription in Turkey but Available OTC in Georgia
| Drug Type | Turkey | Georgia | Warning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Augmentin, etc.) | Prescription required | Over-the-counter | Antibiotic resistance risk — use responsibly |
| Strong painkillers (Tramadol, etc.) | Prescription required | Over-the-counter | High addiction risk — use with caution |
| Sleep aids / sedatives (Diazepam, etc.) | Prescription required | Over-the-counter | Controlled substance — do not transport to Turkey |
| Blood pressure medications | Prescription required | Over-the-counter | Dosage monitoring required; consult a doctor |
| Antidepressants | Prescription required | Most available OTC | Psychiatrist advice strongly recommended |
Price Comparison
Medicine prices in Georgia are on average 30–60% lower than in Turkey. The difference is most significant for antibiotics and chronic disease medications.
- Augmentin 1g × 14 tablets: Around 250 TRY in Turkey; considerably cheaper in Georgia (approximately 60% difference).
- Generic drugs are often available at half the price of branded equivalents.
- Pharmadepot offers wholesale-style pricing for larger quantities.
Important Warnings
- Turkish customs rules: You may bring medicines for personal use into Turkey, but prescription drugs (under Turkish law) require an original Turkish prescription or a doctor's note. Keep documentation with you.
- Psychotropic and controlled substances: Diazepam (Valium), Tramadol, and similar substances can cause serious problems at the Turkish border. Do not transport these medications into Turkey.
- Antibiotic resistance: Easy access to over-the-counter antibiotics does not mean they should be used without medical advice. Misuse significantly increases the risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections.
- Cold-chain medications: Insulin, biologics, and vaccines require refrigeration. Use a thermal bag during transport and ensure proper storage conditions throughout your journey.
Major Pharmacy Chains
- PSP Pharmacy — The most widespread chain in Georgia with hundreds of branches in Tbilisi; operates 24-hour locations. psp.ge
- Pharmadepot — Budget-friendly, offers wholesale purchasing options; ideal for larger quantities.
- GPC (Georgian Pharmaceutical Company) — Well-represented in city centres with a quality-oriented service approach.
- ABC Pharmacy — Broad branch network with accessible pricing.
To find the nearest pharmacy, search "pharmacy near me" or "pharmacy Tbilisi" on Google Maps.
What Do You Need to Buy Medicine?
- Over-the-counter medicines: Simply tell the pharmacist the name of the medicine — in English or by active ingredient. No prescription needed.
- Prescription medicines: Technically may require a prescription, but in practice most are sold without one.
- Communication: Pharmacists rarely speak Turkish. Use English or international drug names (e.g., "amoxicillin", "diazepam"). Writing down the name and showing it usually works well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my Turkish prescription valid in Georgia?
Georgian pharmacies do not officially recognise Turkish prescriptions. In practice, many medicines are already available OTC in Georgia, so a prescription may not be required at all. For specialised drugs, having your prescription on hand can still be helpful.
Which medicines can I bring back to Turkey from Georgia?
You may bring medicines intended for personal use that are legal under Turkish law. Psychotropic substances (Diazepam, Tramadol, etc.) can cause serious problems at the Turkish border — do not transport these. For prescription drugs, carry an original prescription or doctor's letter.
Is insulin available in Georgia?
Yes. Insulin and diabetes medications are generally stocked at major pharmacy chains such as PSP Pharmacy and GPC. If you need a specific brand or formulation, call ahead to confirm availability. Always transport insulin in a thermal bag to maintain the cold chain.
Are generic drugs in Georgia reliable?
Most generics sold in Georgia originate from Europe, India, or Turkey and are subject to state oversight. Purchase only from official pharmacy chains, and avoid products with damaged packaging or missing labels.
Are there 24-hour pharmacies in Tbilisi?
Yes. PSP Pharmacy and other major chains operate 24-hour branches across Tbilisi. Search "24 hour pharmacy Tbilisi" on Google Maps to find the nearest one.
