Codeine In Belize: Over-The-Counter Availability

In Belize, you can purchase practically any type of medication, including those that would typically require a prescription in the US. This includes some painkillers containing codeine. However, it is important to note that many of the products sold in these pharmacies may be counterfeit or not manufactured under the same FDA controls as those in the US. Pharmacies in Belize are typically stocked with North American or European brands, with some products also sourced from Latin America, England, and Spain.

Pharmacies in Belize carry most major brands of medication

You can purchase practically any type of medication in Belize. Most brands are North American or European, and more recently, sourced from Latin America. Medications in Belize are not cheap and are generally marked up about 25% higher compared to prices in the US. However, there are exceptions. These are mainly generic drugs manufactured in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

Belize has a small consumer base of about 390,000 people, and taxes are levied on every step of the pharmaceuticals import supply chain by the government. Business owners have no choice but to pass this on to the consumer. However, basic medications such as antibiotics and pain medication are not taxed.

In addition to the major brands, some enterprising pharmaceutical importers in Belize have started sourcing generic medications from England and Spain, which can result in substantial savings. For example, the common allergy medication Levocetirizine costs about $30 for a box of 30 pills when purchased under a brand name. The same generic medication imported from the UK retails for about half the price.

Among the larger drug stores in Belize are Community Drug Stores, which has three locations in Belize City; Val-U-Med, Family Health Pharmacy, and First Choice Pharmacy, all in Belize City; and The Pharmacy in San Ignacio. Additionally, Brodies supermarkets in Belize City and Belmopan have pharmacies.

Some medications are cheaper in Belize than in the US

It is unclear whether codeine can be purchased over the counter in Belize. However, it is known that some medications that require a prescription in the US do not require one in Belize, including antibiotics, sleeping aids, and painkillers containing codeine.

Belize has a high standard of health and hygiene, and medications are widely available in the country. Pharmacies carry most medications from major manufacturers, and it is possible to purchase practically any type of medication. However, the selection may be limited, and medications in Belize are generally about 25% more expensive than in the US.

There are a few ways to save money on medications in Belize. Firstly, generic drugs manufactured in Europe, Asia, or Latin America are often cheaper than their brand-name counterparts. For example, the generic version of the allergy medication Levocetirizine imported from the UK costs about half the price of the brand-name version. Secondly, basic medications such as antibiotics and pain medication are not taxed, making them more affordable. Finally, public hospitals in Belize provide free basic medications, including antibiotics and pain medication, for a nominal fee of around US$5.

It is worth noting that while prescriptions are not always required in Belize, some pharmacies, especially those owned by physicians or operated by hospitals, may require or suggest a consultation with a doctor. Additionally, private physicians in Belize often own an associated pharmacy, so they can provide prescriptions at a modest cost.

Some medications are more expensive in Belize than in the US

While some medications are more readily available in Belize than in the US, some drugs are more expensive. Medication in Belize is, on average, 25% more expensive than in the US. This is due to the country's small consumer base of around 390,000 people, which means that taxes are levied at every step of the pharmaceuticals import supply chain by the government. These costs are then passed on to the consumer.

However, there are exceptions. Generic drugs manufactured in Europe, Asia, and Latin America are often cheaper. Some pharmaceutical importers in Belize have started sourcing generic medications from England and Spain, which can result in substantial savings. For example, a box of 30 allergy medication Levocetirizine pills costs $30, whereas the same generic medication imported from the UK costs half the price.

Some medications are also available over the counter in Belize, which are prescription drugs in the US. This includes some antibiotics and painkillers containing codeine.

For those on a budget, it may be more cost-effective to live in northern Belize, with easy access to Mexico, where pharmaceuticals and medical care are more affordable. The cost of medication in Mexico is often lower than in the US and Belize.

Some pharmacies in Belize will accommodate visitors who have misplaced their prescriptions

In Belize, some pharmacies will accommodate visitors who have misplaced their prescriptions. This is because many Belizeans are too poor to afford a doctor's visit, so pharmacies often function as a one-stop source of medical advice and dispensary of medications for common ailments.

You will find that smaller, independent pharmacies are more accommodating compared to larger pharmacies, where the pharmacist on duty will insist on a prescription—even if you are feeling unwell and your prescription is back home. If you really need a medication that requires a prescription, it is best to visit a local doctor or general practitioner, who will charge about US$15 for a consultation and prescription. There are many general practitioners located across Belize, and most work in solo practices.

If you are on a tight budget, it may be more cost-effective to visit a local government polyclinic or hospital. There is a difference between general practitioners and specialists. You will find specialist doctors practising all over Belize, and their rates are double what a general practitioner will charge. Many of these specialists arrive in Belize as part of the Cuban medical assistance project, and some decide to remain in the country as they can make a better living. Avoid a specialist unless you really need one. A visit to a specialist will cost around US$30, excluding basic medication.

All cities and towns have public hospitals where you can seek medical attention for a very low fee—about US$2.50. Unless it is an emergency, you will need to arrive early to get a number and be prepared to wait several hours before being attended to. Basic medications such as antibiotics or pain medication are provided free of charge at hospital pharmacies, although some hospitals will ask for a nominal fee of US$5 to provide the medication.

Some medications are available without a prescription in Belize

In Belize, you can buy certain medications without a prescription. These are known as over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. Pharmacies across the country stock a range of OTC medications, including common painkillers containing codeine. However, it is important to note that while some painkillers containing codeine are available over the counter, others may require a prescription. This can vary depending on the specific pharmacy and whether it is owned by a physician or operated by a hospital.

Belizean pharmacies carry most medications from major manufacturers, including Abbott, Pfizer, Merck, Eli Lilly, and Johnson & Johnson, among others. The country primarily imports manufactured products and medications from the USA, Europe, Latin America, and, more recently, England and Spain.

While you can generally find a variety of over-the-counter medications in Belize, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new medication. This is particularly important if you have misplaced or forgotten your prescription while travelling. In such cases, visiting a local doctor or general practitioner is recommended, as they can provide a consultation and prescribe the necessary medication.

Additionally, some pharmacies in Belize may offer services such as special orders, delivery, and discounts for senior citizens. It is worth inquiring about these services if you require assistance in obtaining or accessing your medications.

Frequently asked questions