Buying Viagra In Austria: What Are The Rules?

Viagra is a drug used to treat impotence in men. In Austria, there are two types of medication: freely available drugs and prescription-only medicines, which require a Rezept (prescription) from a doctor. As of 2024, men no longer require a prescription to obtain Viagra and can instead buy it over the counter at pharmacies. However, it is important to note that the law on prescriptions in Austria is very strict, and many medicines that are available over the counter in other countries require a prescription in Austria.

Viagra is available over the counter in Austrian pharmacies without a prescription

The law on prescriptions in Austria is strict, and many medications that are available over the counter elsewhere, such as antibiotics, require a prescription from a doctor in Austria. However, Viagra is not one of these medications and can be purchased by anyone over the age of 18 without a prescription.

It is worth noting that, while a prescription is not required for Viagra, there are still some regulations surrounding its sale. For example, the amount of Viagra that can be purchased at one time may be limited, and it can only be purchased from licensed pharmacies, not from supermarkets or drugstores.

Additionally, while Viagra is available over the counter, it is still a medication and should be treated as such. It is important to speak to a pharmacist or doctor before taking Viagra to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you, and to follow the instructions provided with the medication carefully.

A prescription in Austria is generally valid for 12 months from its date of issue

In Austria, a prescription is generally valid for 12 months from its date of issue, unless the prescribing doctor has noted a shorter period. However, the first dispensing of the medicine must take place within one month of the date of issue indicated on the prescription. The prescription can be repeated up to five times (a total of six times) unless stated otherwise. However, certain active substances, such as antibiotics or diazepam, are prohibited from being dispensed repeatedly, so they can only be purchased once.

Prescriptions must be redeemed within one month of issue if the costs of the medicine are to be covered by the health insurance institution. A prescription fee must be paid by the patient for each package unit. However, certain circumstances allow for exemptions from the prescription fee.

The prescription must contain the following information:

• Doctor's name, address, and professional title
• Date of issue (validity)
• Name of the medicine
• Instructions for use
• Dosage form (e.g. capsules, drops)
• Quantity of the active ingredient per unit (e.g. tablet, ampoule)
• Quantity or package size
• Patient's first name, surname, and address
• Doctor's signature (electronic signatures are acceptable)

For medicines dispensed in a pharmacy, patients must pay a prescription fee for each package

In Austria, Viagra is available over the counter at pharmacies without a prescription. However, for medicines dispensed in a pharmacy, patients must pay a prescription fee for each package. This prescription fee is a contribution that the patient must pay towards the cost of the medicine. The current prescription fee in Austria is €4.45.

There are some exemptions from the prescription fee under certain circumstances. For example, those with low or no income do not have to pay for healthcare in Austria. Additionally, a prescription fee exemption can be granted under certain conditions by the Austrian Health Insurance Fund.

It is important to note that the prescription requirements in Austria are determined by the Austrian Federal Office for Safety in Health Care based on scientific knowledge, experience, and legal regulations at the time of the medicinal product's approval. The law on prescriptions is very strict, and many medicines that can be purchased over the counter in other countries, such as antibiotics, require a prescription from a doctor in Austria.

When obtaining a prescription in Austria, it is not necessary to register with a specific pharmacy. However, individuals must be registered with a local doctor, which can be done by providing proof of ID and an e-card at a surgery.

In Austria, you can only buy toiletries from a drugstore (Drogerie)

Prescription-only medicines require a 'Rezept' from a doctor. The prescription must be taken to the pharmacy, where the pharmacist will issue the medicine. The law on prescriptions is very strict. Many medications that can be bought over the counter in other countries, such as antibiotics, require a prescription in Austria. However, some painkillers, like headache tablets, are available without a prescription.

Prescriptions are generally valid for twelve months from the date of issue, but the first dispensing of the medicine must take place within one month of the date of issue. In cases of emergency, a pharmacist is authorised to dispense medicines without a prescription, but only in the smallest package size available.

It is prohibited to sell prescription medicines via the internet in Austria.

Medication must be in its original packaging when brought into Austria

Bringing medication into Austria to cover your usual personal needs (a maximum of three retail packs of the smallest size) does not require a permit. However, an exception to this rule is addictive drugs. If this is prescription medication, proof of your personal needs is required in the form of confirmation from the doctor treating you. This should include your personal details, the necessity of continuing treatment, the generic name of the drug, and its dosage.

The Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, Health and Consumer Protection recommends that if the certificate has not been issued in German, you should bring a certified translation with you.

For medicines that are subject to the Addictive Substances Act (this includes addictive drugs and psychotropic substances), strict regulations and inspection requirements apply. Unlawful possession of these substances can lead to prosecution.

Frequently asked questions