Prescription - Asked For ´Visado´?

Similar to a controlled drug, “visado” referring to the conditions of prescription and dispensing of medicines.

1. The Ministry of Health and Consumer Affairs may proceed to the imposition of a visa in the
following cases:
a) Drugs subject to the restricted medical prescription qualification,
understanding such:
1.º The medicines that, because of their pharmacological characteristics or for their
novelty, or for public health reasons, are indicated for treatments that can only be
monitored in hospital environment;
2.º The medicines that are used in the treatment of diseases that must be
diagnosed in a hospital setting, or in establishments that have means of
adequate diagnosis, although the administration and follow-up can be carried out outside the
hospital;
3.º Medicines intended for outpatients, but whose use may be
produce very serious adverse reactions, which requires, if necessary, a medical prescription
extended by a specialist and special monitoring during treatment;

“Con visado” means the prescription has to be authorised and stamped by a person in charge of the Centro de Salud. A person is allocated to that job. You pick the prescription up a couple of days later from the farmacia. It normally occurs with ‘dangerous’ drugs or expensive ones.

Please note: The information provided is based upon our understanding of current legislation. It is not legal advice but is provided freely to enable you to be properly informed. We recommend that if you are considering taking action, you should seek professional advice.