How to Buy Medicine in Vietnam? Pharmacy Guide for Foreign Teachers

You can buy medicine in Vietnam at modern pharmacy chains including Long Chau (2,117+ stores), Pharmacity (957+ stores), and An Khang (326+ stores) across all 34 provinces. Over-the-counter medications are available without prescriptions, while prescription drugs require valid doctor’s orders.

Vietnam’s pharmaceutical retail market has transformed dramatically with the 2025 administrative reform reducing provinces from 63 to 34, making healthcare access more streamlined. Major chains now offer 30-60 minute delivery in urban areas, with medication prices 20-30% lower than Western countries. The market serves 60,000+ pharmacies nationwide, though modern chains account for only 5.7% market share.

Foreign teachers and expats can purchase most common medications over-the-counter, including antibiotics (despite legal requirements), but understanding the system prevents costly mistakes. This guide covers prescription requirements, trusted pharmacy chains, delivery options, and safety precautions when buying medicine in Vietnam’s evolving healthcare landscape.

Where Can I Buy Medicine in Vietnam?

You can buy medicine at major pharmacy chains (Long Chau with 2,117 stores and Pharmacity with 957 stores nationwide), through official mobile apps for home delivery, at hospital pharmacies, or independent local pharmacies marked by green cross signs. According to Mekong Capital’s October 2025 investment report, Long Chau operates in all 34 provinces across Vietnam, while Pharmacity maintains stores in major urban centers. Both chains offer online ordering through their official apps with delivery services, and most common medications are available without prescriptions.

The Vietnamese pharmaceutical retail market includes approximately 50,000 pharmacies nationwide, with modern chains accounting for a growing portion of the market. For foreign teachers and expats, major chains provide the most reliable option with English-speaking staff in urban areas, fixed pricing, quality assurance, and convenient online ordering systems.

Major Pharmacy Chains in Vietnam

1. Long Chau (FPT Long Chau) – Largest Chain

Long Chau is Vietnam’s largest pharmacy chain with 2,117 stores across all 34 provinces as of June 2025. Operated by FPT Corporation, it specializes in prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, cosmetics, and medical equipment.

How to Buy:

• In-store: Visit any Long Chau pharmacy (find nearest location on their app or website)
• Online ordering: Download “Long Chau – Medicine Specialist” app (available on Google Play and App Store)
• Website: nhathuoclongchau.com.vn
• Hotline: 1800 6928 (operating hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily)
• Delivery: Free delivery on orders from 0 VND through app

Key Features:

• Nationwide coverage including remote provinces
• English-speaking staff at major city locations
• Electronic prescription system
• Vaccination centers at select locations
• Hospital-prescribed drug specialists (including cancer medications)
• Member rewards program with accumulated points

Payment Methods:

• Cash (Vietnamese Dong)
• Credit/Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Mobile payment through app

Headquarters Address (for reference only): 379-381 Hai Ba Trung Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

2. Pharmacity – Second Largest Chain

Pharmacity operates 957 stores as of mid-2025 across major Vietnamese cities. Founded in 2011, it’s known for professional consultation services and standardized quality control meeting Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP) standards.

How to Buy:

• In-store: Visit Pharmacity locations in your city
• Online ordering: Download “Pharmacity – Nhà thuốc uy tín” app (Google Play/App Store)
• Website: pharmacity.vn
• Hotline: 1800 6821 (operating hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily)
• Email: [email protected]
• Delivery: Free delivery service through app and website

Key Features:

• Airport pharmacy locations (Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi)
• Professional pharmacist consultations
• Online health articles and wellness tips
• Integration with e-commerce platforms (Shopee, Lazada, Tiki)
• Member discount program

Payment Methods:

• Cash (Vietnamese Dong)
• Credit/Debit cards
• E-wallets (MoMo, GrabPay at select locations)

Head Office Address (for reference only): 248A No Trang Long, Ward 12, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City

3. An Khang Pharmacy

An Khang, owned by Mobile World Group (parent company of The Gioi Di Dong electronics chain), operates 527 stores primarily in major urban areas.

How to Buy:

• In-store: Visit An Khang pharmacy locations
• Services: Free blood pressure and weight measurement
• Features: Professional pharmacist team, trained consultation staff

Payment Methods:

• Cash preferred
• Cards accepted at most locations

4. Guardian Pharmacy

International pharmacy chain with presence in Vietnam’s major shopping centers and commercial areas.

How to Buy:

• In-store: Located primarily in shopping malls
• Features: International product selection, beauty and wellness products
• Target audience: Expats and foreign visitors familiar with the Guardian brand

Hospital and Clinic Pharmacies

International Hospital Pharmacies

For prescription medications and specialized drugs, international hospitals provide the most reliable option with multilingual staff and guaranteed medication authenticity.

How to Access:

1. Visit hospital pharmacy directly (no consultation required for refills)
2. Consultation + pharmacy: See doctor first, receive prescription, fill at hospital pharmacy
3. 24/7 emergency pharmacy: Available at major international hospitals

Major International Hospitals:

• Family Medical Practice (FMP): Hanoi and HCMC locations
• Raffles Medical: HCMC
• FV Hospital: HCMC
• Vinmec International Hospital: Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang, and other cities

For comprehensive hospital information, visit our guide on International Hospitals in Vietnam.

Vietnamese Public Hospital Pharmacies

Major public hospitals like Bach Mai (Hanoi), Cho Ray (HCMC), and University Medical Center HCMC maintain pharmacies with extensive medication inventories.

Advantages:

• Hospital-prescribed medications available
• Specialized drugs and cancer treatments
• Emergency medication access 24/7

Disadvantages:

• Limited English support
• Longer wait times
• May require hospital consultation

Independent Local Pharmacies

How to Identify:

• Look for green cross signs (universal pharmacy symbol)
• Signage reading “Nhà Thuốc” (pharmacy in Vietnamese)
• Typically located on every street in urban areas

How to Buy:

1. Visit pharmacy directly
2. Show medication package or photo
3. Use translation app for communication if needed
4. Pay cash (most common payment method)

Best For:

• Emergency medication needs outside business hours
• Quick purchases (pain relievers, cold medicine, bandages)
• Local neighborhood convenience

Limitations:

• Minimal to no English spoken
• Quality varies by pharmacy
• Pricing not always fixed (negotiable at some locations)

Quality Check:

• Look for business license displayed
• Check medication packaging for intact seals
• Verify expiration dates before purchase

How Can I Order Medicine Online in Vietnam?

You can order medicine online through Long Chau app (1800 6928), Pharmacity app (1800 6821), or their official websites with delivery typically within 1-4 hours in major cities. According to FPT Retail’s 2024 annual report, Long Chau’s online platform processes an average of 30-60 minute delivery times for in-stock medications in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Both platforms require account registration with phone number verification and offer free delivery on most orders.

Step-by-Step Online Ordering Process

Using Long Chau App:

1. Download & Install
   • Search “Long Chau – Medicine Specialist” on Google Play or App Store
   • Install free app (Vietnamese and English interface available)
2. Create Account
   • Register with phone number (Vietnamese number required)
   • Verify via SMS code
   • Add delivery address
3. Order Medication
   • Search by medicine name (generic or brand name)
   • Use “Chat with Pharmacist” feature (take photo of prescription/empty box)
   • Add items to cart
   • Review order and delivery address
4. Payment Options
   • Cash on delivery (COD)
   • Credit/Debit card (save for future orders)
   • In-app wallet
5. Delivery
   • Track order status in real-time
   • Average delivery: 30-90 minutes in major cities
   • Free delivery on orders from 0 VND
   • Contactless delivery available

Using Pharmacity App:

1. Download & Setup
   • Search “Pharmacity – Nhà thuốc uy tín” on app stores
   • Register with phone number and email
   • Enable location services for nearest pharmacy
2. Browse & Order
   • Search medication by name or browse categories
   • Read product information and usage instructions
   • Add to cart
   • Choose delivery or store pickup
3. Payment & Delivery
   • Pay via cash on delivery, card, or e-wallet
   • Track delivery progress
   • Typical delivery: 1-4 hours depending on location
4. Additional Services
   • Schedule medication reminders
   • Access health articles and tips
   • Save favorite products for quick reorder

Online Ordering Important Notes

What You Can Order Online:

• Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, cold medicine, digestive aids)
• Vitamins and supplements
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Cosmetics and personal care products
• Prescription medications (with uploaded prescription photo)

What You Cannot Order Online:

• Controlled substances (narcotic painkillers, psychotropic drugs)
• Some prescription medications may require in-store verification

Important Caution About Thuocsi.vn: Thuocsi.vn (operated by BuyMed) is a B2B wholesale platform serving pharmacies and clinics, NOT for individual consumers. It supplies 35,000+ pharmacies but does not sell directly to the public. If you’re looking to buy medicine for personal use, use Long Chau or Pharmacity instead.

Delivery Coverage:

• Major cities (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang): 30-90 minutes
• Provincial capitals: 2-4 hours
• Remote areas: 1-2 days or not available

Order Tracking:

• Both apps provide real-time tracking
• SMS notifications for order status updates
• Delivery person contact information provided

Returns & Refunds:

• Unopened medications can be returned within 7 days (Long Chau policy)
• Defective products eligible for refund or exchange
• Contact customer service hotline for assistance

What Should I Know Before Buying Medicine in Vietnam?

Before buying medicine in Vietnam, know that 81.7% of antibiotics are dispensed without prescriptions according to a 2023 national survey published in PMC (PubMed Central), but responsible self-medication is critical as Vietnam faces antimicrobial resistance issues. Always verify medication expiration dates, check for intact packaging seals, and purchase from reputable chains (Long Chau, Pharmacity) to avoid counterfeit drugs. For serious medical conditions lasting more than 3 days, consult a doctor rather than self-medicating.

Medication Availability in Vietnam

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: Many medications requiring prescriptions in Western countries are available OTC in Vietnam, including:

• Antibiotics: Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin (though legally require prescriptions, widely sold OTC)
• Pain relievers: Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Aspirin
• Anti-inflammatory drugs: Diclofenac, Naproxen
• Antihistamines: Cetirizine, Loratadine
• Digestive medications: Loperamide (anti-diarrheal), Omeprazole (antacid)

Critical Warning: While antibiotics are widely available, the World Health Organization warns that antibiotic overuse has led to significant antimicrobial resistance. Only use antibiotics for bacterial infections, not viral illnesses like common cold or flu. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days, see a doctor.

Medications Requiring Prescriptions: According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Health Circular 12/2025/TT-BYT (effective July 1, 2025):

• Narcotic painkillers: Morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl, tramadol
• Psychotropic drugs: Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium), sleeping pills
• Strong corticosteroids: Systemic steroid treatments
• Cancer treatment drugs: Chemotherapy agents
• Psychiatric medications: Antidepressants, antipsychotics

Major chains (Long Chau, Pharmacity) are more likely to enforce prescription requirements than small independent pharmacies.

Price Expectations (2025-2026)

Vietnamese medication prices are significantly lower than Western countries:

Common Medication Prices:

Medication	Vietnam Price	US/EU Equivalent	Savings
Paracetamol 500mg (20 tablets)	15,000-25,000 VND ($0.60-1.00)	$5-8	80-90%
Ibuprofen 400mg (30 tablets)	35,000-60,000 VND ($1.40-2.40)	$8-12	70-82%
Amoxicillin 500mg (21 tablets)	25,000-40,000 VND ($1.00-1.60)	$15-25	85-94%
Cetirizine 10mg (30 tablets)	30,000-50,000 VND ($1.20-2.00)	$10-15	80-88%

Price Variation Factors:

• Major chains: Fixed pricing, 10-15% higher than independents
• Independent pharmacies: Lower prices, quality varies
• Hospital pharmacies: 20-40% premium, highest quality assurance
• Brand vs. Generic: Vietnamese generics 50-70% cheaper than international brands

Quality Assurance Tips

How to Verify Medication Quality:

1. Check Packaging
   • Intact seals (no tampering)
   • Clear printing (no smudges or fading)
   • Manufacturer information visible
   • Expiration date clearly marked
2. Verify Registration
   • Look for registration number on package (format: VD-XXXXX-XX)
   • Legitimate medications have Drug Administration of Vietnam approval
3. Buy from Reputable Sources
   • Preferred: Long Chau, Pharmacity (GPP certified)
   • Acceptable: Hospital pharmacies, established independents
   • Avoid: Street vendors, market stalls, unlicensed sellers
4. Check Medication Appearance
   • Pills should be uniform in color and shape
   • No discoloration, cracks, or unusual odor
   • Liquid medications should be clear (unless specifically colored)

Red Flags for Counterfeit Drugs:

• Price significantly lower than normal
• No Vietnamese labeling or instructions
• Poor packaging quality
• Pharmacist reluctant to show package before purchase
• No business license displayed

Communication Tips

If Pharmacist Doesn’t Speak English:

Method 1: Use Generic Names Write down the generic (chemical) name, not brand name:

• Ibuprofen (not Advil)
• Loperamide (not Imodium)
• Paracetamol/Acetaminophen (not Tylenol)

Method 2: Show Visual Reference

• Photo of medication packaging
• Empty medication bottle with label
• Prescription document (even if expired)

Method 3: Translation Apps Use Google Translate with these key phrases:

English	Vietnamese	Pronunciation
Do you have this medicine?	Bạn có thuốc này không?	Ban co tuo-k nay khom?
How much?	Bao nhiêu tiền?	Bow nyew tyen?
Once daily	Ngày một lần	Ngai mot lan
Twice daily	Ngày hai lần	Ngai hai lan
After meals	Sau bữa ăn	Sow bur-a an

Method 4: Download Pharmacy Apps Both Long Chau and Pharmacity apps have “Chat with Pharmacist” features where you can:

• Send photos of medications
• Get product recommendations
• Receive dosage instructions
• English support available through app

What to Bring When Buying Prescription Medications

For Regular Medications:

1. Original prescription from your home doctor (in English)
2. Generic name list of your medications
3. Doctor’s letter explaining medical necessity
4. Previous medication packaging (shows exact dosage and formulation)

For Controlled Substances: Additional documentation required:

• Medical certificate from physician
• Prescription not older than 3 months
• May require Vietnamese doctor consultation for refills

For travelers bringing medications into Vietnam, see our guide on Emergency Medical Care in Vietnam for customs requirements.

Emergency Medication Access

24/7 Pharmacy Options:

1. International hospital pharmacies: Family Medical Practice, Raffles Medical, FV Hospital
2. Major public hospital emergency pharmacies: Available but limited English support
3. Select Long Chau locations: Some branches in Hanoi and HCMC operate 24 hours

If You Need Emergency Medication:

1. Call emergency services: 115 (ambulance)
2. Contact your hotel concierge: They can arrange pharmacy delivery or accompaniment
3. Use pharmacy hotlines:
   • Long Chau: 1800 6928
   • Pharmacity: 1800 6821

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Medicine in Vietnam?

The most common mistake is buying from unlicensed street vendors or market stalls, where counterfeit drug rates can exceed 30% according to Vietnam’s Drug Administration reports. Never purchase medications from non-pharmacy locations, always verify packaging integrity before leaving the pharmacy, and avoid self-medicating antibiotics for viral infections. Additionally, don’t assume your home country prescription will be automatically accepted – major chains may require Vietnamese doctor verification for refills.

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

1. Buying from Unauthorized Sellers

• ❌ Street vendors near tourist areas
• ❌ Market stalls without pharmacy licenses
• ❌ Online sellers without verified credentials
• ❌ Unlabeled or repackaged medications
• ✅ Only buy from licensed pharmacies with displayed business permits

2. Self-Medicating Antibiotics Incorrectly

• ❌ Using antibiotics for cold/flu (viral, not bacterial)
• ❌ Not completing full antibiotic course
• ❌ Taking someone else’s prescribed antibiotics
• ❌ Using expired antibiotics from previous illness
• ✅ Consult doctor for symptoms lasting 3+ days

3. Ignoring Medication Verification

• ❌ Not checking expiration dates
• ❌ Accepting opened or resealed packages
• ❌ Failing to verify medication name and dosage
• ❌ Not reading Vietnamese label instructions
• ✅ Inspect packaging before payment, use translation app for instructions

4. Payment and Pricing Errors

• ❌ Paying inflated “tourist prices” without asking
• ❌ Not comparing prices between 2-3 pharmacies for expensive medications
• ❌ Assuming prices include consultation fees (separate charge)
• ✅ Major chains have fixed prices, independents may negotiate

5. Language and Communication Issues

• ❌ Pointing at body parts without knowing medicine name
• ❌ Relying solely on symptom description (can lead to wrong medication)
• ❌ Not verifying dosage instructions before leaving
• ✅ Use generic names, photos, or pharmacist chat features

6. Prescription Medication Mistakes

• ❌ Expecting home country prescriptions to work everywhere
• ❌ Not bringing enough medication for initial weeks
• ❌ Failing to research if your medication is legal in Vietnam
• ✅ Bring 30-day supply + prescription + doctor’s letter

7. Online Ordering Errors

• ❌ Using unverified pharmacy websites
• ❌ Providing payment info on non-secure platforms
• ❌ Ordering controlled substances online (illegal)
• ✅ Only use official Long Chau or Pharmacity apps

Safe Medication Practices

Do:

• Store medications in cool, dry place (avoid bathroom humidity)
• Keep medications in original packaging with labels
• Set phone reminders for medication schedules
• Inform new doctors about all medications you’re taking
• Register with international clinic for ongoing care

Don’t:

• Share prescription medications with others
• Mix medications with alcohol without pharmacist approval
• Stop prescribed medications without doctor consultation
• Take medications past expiration date
• Store medications in direct sunlight or hot cars

Need Comprehensive Healthcare Support?

Explore our HEALTH & INSURANCE category for essential resources:

• Vietnamese health insurance for foreign teachers
• International hospital contact directories
• Emergency medical procedures and hotlines
• Healthcare budgeting and cost management
• Vaccination requirements and travel medicine

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Medicine in Vietnam

1. Can I buy antibiotics without a prescription in Vietnam?

Technically, antibiotics require prescriptions under Vietnam’s 2005 Drug Law, but in practice, 81.7% of antibiotics are dispensed without prescriptions according to a 2023 national survey by PMC. Most independent pharmacies will sell common antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Azithromycin) without a prescription, while major chains (Long Chau, Pharmacity) are increasingly enforcing prescription requirements. However, self-medicating antibiotics is risky – only use for confirmed bacterial infections and complete the full course. For symptoms lasting more than 3 days, consult a doctor rather than self-prescribing antibiotics.

2. Do Long Chau and Pharmacity accept foreign credit cards?

Yes, both Long Chau and Pharmacity accept international Visa and Mastercard credit/debit cards at all locations. Some locations also accept American Express. You can save card information in their mobile apps for faster checkout. However, small independent pharmacies typically only accept cash (Vietnamese Dong). There are no foreign transaction fees imposed by the pharmacies, but your bank may charge 1-3% foreign transaction fees depending on your card issuer.

3. How do I refill my prescription medication if I run out while in Vietnam?

For prescription medication refills, you have three options: (1) Visit a major pharmacy (Long Chau/Pharmacity) with your original prescription and empty medication bottle – pharmacists may dispense without local prescription for common medications like blood pressure or diabetes drugs. (2) Schedule consultation at an international hospital – bring your home prescription and medical records; doctors can issue Vietnamese prescriptions. Cost: 800,000-1,500,000 VND ($32-60). (3) Use telemedicine services (Doctor Anywhere, JOJO MD) for remote consultation and e-prescription sent to partner pharmacies. Always bring a 30-60 day supply when arriving in Vietnam to avoid immediate refill issues.

4. What should I do if I suspect I received counterfeit medication?

If you suspect counterfeit medication, stop taking it immediately and take the following actions: (1) Contact the pharmacy where purchased and request refund/exchange with receipt. (2) Report to Drug Administration of Vietnam (website: dav.gov.vn) with photos of packaging and purchase receipt. (3) Visit reputable hospital or clinic for proper medication and health check if you’ve already taken suspected counterfeit drugs. (4) For emergency concerns, call emergency services 115 or contact your embassy. Major chains (Long Chau, Pharmacity) have strict quality control and offer guarantee policies, while independent pharmacies carry higher counterfeit risk. Always check packaging seals, expiration dates, and registration numbers before purchase.

5. Can I order medicine online for same-day delivery in smaller cities?

Yes, but with limitations. Long Chau offers same-day delivery in most provincial capitals (typically 2-4 hours) through their app (1800 6928), while Pharmacity focuses on major urban areas (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang, Can Tho). In smaller cities or rural areas, delivery may take 1-2 days or not be available. Check delivery availability by entering your address in the app before ordering. Alternative: Use the app to locate nearest pharmacy and visit in person for immediate purchase. Both apps show real-time inventory at nearby locations. For urgent medication needs in remote areas, contact local hospital pharmacies directly.

6. Are Vietnamese generic medications as effective as Western brand names?

Yes, Vietnamese generic medications manufactured by WHO-approved companies are equally effective as Western brand names. According to Vietnam’s Drug Administration, generic medications must contain the same active ingredients in identical concentrations and meet the same quality standards as branded versions. Major Vietnamese pharmaceutical manufacturers like Teva Vietnam, Sanofi Vietnam, and Domesco meet international GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards. However, you may notice different inactive ingredients (fillers, coatings) that don’t affect efficacy. Generic medications cost 50-70% less than international brands. Always verify the registration number (format: VD-XXXXX-XX) on packaging to ensure legitimate products.

7. What medications should I bring from home versus buy in Vietnam?

Bring from home: (1) Prescription medications for first 30-60 days – ensures uninterrupted treatment while settling in. (2) Controlled substances – difficult or impossible to obtain in Vietnam (strong painkillers, ADHD medications, benzodiazepines). (3) Specific brand preferences – if you have sensitivities to generic formulations. (4) Specialty medications – rare medications may not be available in Vietnam. Buy in Vietnam: (1) Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, cold medicine, antihistamines) – much cheaper and readily available. (2) Vitamins and supplements – lower cost with good quality. (3) Prescription refills – after initial supply, can obtain locally with Vietnamese doctor consultation. Always carry prescription copies and doctor’s letter for customs declaration when bringing medications into Vietnam.

8. Do pharmacies in Vietnam offer vaccinations?

Yes, Long Chau operates 87 vaccination centers as of 2024, offering vaccines for hepatitis, flu, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, and other preventable diseases. Vaccination services require advance booking through the Long Chau app or website tiemchunglongchau.com.vn. Cost varies by vaccine type (typically 200,000-800,000 VND / $8-32 per dose). International hospitals (Family Medical Practice, Raffles Medical) also provide comprehensive vaccination services with English-speaking staff and WHO-certified vaccines. For routine vaccinations, Long Chau vaccination centers offer lower costs, while international hospitals provide more personalized consultation and travel medicine expertise. Both options maintain proper cold chain protocols and electronic vaccination records.

9. Is travel insurance necessary if medication is cheap in Vietnam?

Yes, travel/health insurance is essential despite low medication costs. While routine medications are inexpensive (60-80% cheaper than Western countries), emergency medical care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation are extremely expensive. A 3-day hospital stay at an international facility can cost $3,000-8,000, and medical evacuation to Bangkok or Singapore exceeds $50,000. Insurance covers: (1) Emergency surgery and hospitalization, (2) Ambulance and emergency transportation, (3) Medical evacuation if needed, (4) Lost or stolen prescription medication replacement. For foreign teachers, ensure your insurance includes: prescription medication coverage, pre-existing condition coverage (if applicable), dental emergencies, and repatriation coverage. Budget medication costs are a benefit, but insurance protects against catastrophic expenses.

10. What should I do if the pharmacy doesn’t have my medication in stock?

If your medication is out of stock, try these options: (1) Ask pharmacist to check other branch locations – major chains can verify inventory at nearby stores and reserve for you. (2) Use the pharmacy app – both Long Chau and Pharmacity apps show real-time inventory at all locations. (3) Contact manufacturer or distributor – pharmacist can order directly; typically arrives in 2-5 days for common medications. (4) Try hospital pharmacies – larger inventory, especially for prescription and specialty drugs. (5) Substitute with equivalent generic – ask pharmacist for alternative brands with same active ingredient and dosage. For urgent needs, call pharmacy hotlines (Long Chau: 1800 6928, Pharmacity: 1800 6821) and they can locate stock nationwide and arrange transfer or delivery.

Vietnam’s pharmacy system offers foreign teachers and expats excellent access to affordable medications through reliable chains like Long Chau (2,117 stores nationwide, hotline 1800 6928) and Pharmacity (957 stores, hotline 1800 6821). Both provide convenient online ordering through mobile apps with typical delivery times of 30-90 minutes in major cities and free delivery services. While 81.7% of medications are available over-the-counter, including many antibiotics, responsible self-medication is critical to avoid contributing to antimicrobial resistance issues.

Key Takeaways for Safe Medicine Purchases:

• Buy from reputable chains (Long Chau, Pharmacity) or international hospital pharmacies for guaranteed quality
• Use official mobile apps for convenient online ordering with real-time inventory and delivery tracking
• Verify packaging integrity, expiration dates, and registration numbers before purchase
• Avoid street vendors, market stalls, and unlicensed sellers to prevent counterfeit medications
• Self-medicate only for minor ailments; consult doctors for symptoms lasting 3+ days
• Bring 30-60 day supply of prescription medications when arriving in Vietnam
• Download pharmacy apps and save hotlines (Long Chau: 1800 6928, Pharmacity: 1800 6821) for emergencies

With medication costs 60-80% lower than Western countries, proper pharmacy knowledge, and access to major chains’ online platforms, managing healthcare needs in Vietnam is both affordable and convenient. Always prioritize quality verification over price savings, and don’t hesitate to consult international hospitals when medical conditions require professional evaluation. Your health and safety depend on informed purchasing decisions and responsible medication use.