Until recently there was no equivalent to Western pharmacies or drug stores, fully stocked with the latest medicine and personal hygiene products. With the opening of the American Medical Center Pharmacy, one can now obtain most any prescription or over-the-counter drug necessary. More importantly, the general availability of high quality (often foreign) drugs and hygiene products in other pharmacies has improved greatly although it varies from pharmacy to pharmacy. Now items such as imported band aids, antiseptics, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste and condoms can now be found in SUPERMARKETS and even some larger grocery stores.

The old standard Russian "Apteka" was an apothecary with a limited and uncertain supply of medicines and related products. Many had an information department (spravochnyy otdel) to help their customers locate the needed medicine at other pharmacies.

Pharmacies now have a special section with well known imported drugs and over the counter medicines at higher prices. There are more than 400 "Apteka" in the city and many are modernizing quickly, often in cooperation with foreign firms. But for your own convenience bring along a good supply of your special prescription medicines, contraceptives, and standard over-the-counter products such as antibiotic and anti-fungal ointments.

For availability of various medicines and drugs, call the following number:
Pharmacy information: 164-44-10

Organization of "Night Pharmacies" is in transition. Call 164-44-10 for information on availability and hours of pharmacies.

Even old-fashion pharmacies are greatly improved and stock many of the well known personal hygiene products and a good range of Western pharmaceuticals.

"Information departments" of Apteka can tell you which Apteka is currently open and which stocks the medicine you are looking for.

Homeopathic medicine is based on very low doses of symptom-causing medicines, and herbal medicine is based on plants and herbs. These pharmacies often both have herbal medications and teas.