Ibuprofen in Spain: Pharmacy or Prescription?
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, MD
Licensed Physician No. 484814280 · Official Medical College of Bizkaia (Spain)Last reviewed: 3 October 2026
Ibuprofeno is ibuprofen, sold elsewhere as Nurofen or Advil. Which packs you can buy in a Spanish pharmacy, who should check first and when to see a doctor.
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Ibuprofeno is ibuprofen, the anti-inflammatory sold elsewhere as Nurofen or Advil.
- What it is used for: mild to moderate pain (headache, toothache, period pain, muscle and joint pain), fever and inflammation.
- How to take it: with food and for the shortest time needed, following the leaflet or your prescription.
- Check first if: you have had a stomach ulcer or bleeding, have kidney or heart disease, high blood pressure, take blood thinners, are pregnant or have had asthma with anti-inflammatories. Do not combine it with other anti-inflammatories.
- Do you need a prescription? Lower-strength packs are sold without one in Spanish pharmacies; higher-strength tablets need a prescription.
- See a doctor if: you have severe stomach pain, black stools, swelling, breathlessness, or pain or fever that does not settle in a few days.
This is general information and does not replace the package leaflet or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. If you need an assessment, you can book a video consultation or read about headaches. This service is for urgent, non-emergency care; in an emergency, call 112.
Medical Citations & Sources
This content is written and reviewed by a licensed physician with reference to the following official health authorities.
