American Man Living in Spain Reveals the Drastic Differences Between PHARMACIES in the Two Countries

An American living in Spain has revealed one of his favorite culture shocks: a visit to a pharmacy.

In one of his recent TikToks, chef and author Jeremy Scheck takes viewers to a pharmacy in Madrid, where he discusses some of the biggest differences between a pharmacy in Europe and one in America.

Firstly, he says that the work of a pharmacist is different in both countries, and ‘in here Spain “There are no over-the-counter medications, not even Advil.”

He then goes on to highlight how the products are presented in different ways and that the types of products offered in the market are not the same.

The foodie explains that in Spanish pharmacies you will find ‘mainly skin care products, perfumes, special shampoos or mouthwashes’ on the shelves.

In one of his recent TikToks, chef and author Jeremy Scheck takes viewers to a pharmacy in Madrid and compares it to what you’d find in the US

These tend to be more expensive brands, so if you want ‘everyday brands like Dove or Crest’ you’ll have to go to the supermarket separately for those.

On the subject of receiving prescriptions, Jeremy also discusses some things he noticed during his stay in Spain.

He explains: ‘Prescriptions are also very different because there is usually nothing in a pill bottle.

‘It’s just there, so you get prescribed a whole box.’

Because pharmacists “don’t have to count pills all day,” customer service is better and you get personalized consultations, Jeremy says.

The content creator indicates that he even knows his pharmacist, Soledad, by name.

He gives an example of how she provided him with a bespoke service: ‘When I moved here, the climate was much drier, so my skincare routine wasn’t working for me.

‘[So] She helped design a new routine.’

Jeremy says most over-the-counter medicines are the same, but in Spain you “just have to ask the pharmacist or describe your symptoms” as they don’t have a window display for you to pick up.

The foodie explains that in Spanish pharmacies you will find ‘mainly skin care, perfumes, special shampoos or mouthwashes’

Another big difference that Jeremy highlights is the fact that healthcare in Spain is free.

That’s why he says, “If you’re not feeling well, pharmacists often act as the first line of defense.”

He continues: ‘They tell you whether or not you should go to the doctor.’

That’s why he says, “If you’re not feeling well, pharmacists often act as the first line of defense.”

Finally, Jeremy tells his 2.1 million followers: “And of course, brand-name medications are a fraction of the price.”

After visiting “most EU countries,” the TikTok creator says the system in Spain is “pretty standard,” “but there are countries like the Netherlands where you can buy a lot without a prescription.”

So far, Jeremy’s video has been viewed over 95,000 times, with many viewers sharing their opinions on the matter.

A commenter wrote: ‘Yes, I’ll take [Spain’s] “I would choose the system over the American capitalist system any day.”

Another viewer expressed his displeasure: ‘[The] The American system is broken for patients AND pharmacists!

‘Counting pills takes time. Long delays in filling prescriptions are common and there are pharmacist strikes.’