Medication in Turkey is dramatically cheaper than in Western Europe — often 70–90% less for the same active ingredient. A month's blood pressure medication that costs €40 in Germany may cost €3 in Turkey. The prescription system functions similarly to Europe but with more pharmacist discretion, and generic medications dominate the market. Here is everything you need to navigate the system.
Cost of Common Medications in Turkey
Approximate 2026 retail prices (self-pay, without insurance subsidy)
| Medication | Brand Price | Generic Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amlodipine 5mg (blood pressure, 30 tablets) | €3–6 | €1–3 | Commonly prescribed; widely available as Turkish generic |
| Atorvastatin 20mg (cholesterol, 30 tablets) | €5–10 | €2–5 | Lipitor equivalent; generic Atorvastatin cheaply available |
| Metformin 1000mg (diabetes, 60 tablets) | €3–7 | €1.50–4 | Most common diabetes drug; freely available |
| Amoxicillin 500mg (antibiotics, 16 capsules) | €4–8 | €2–5 | Prescription technically required; very affordable |
| Levothyroxine (thyroid, 30 tablets) | €4–8 | €2–5 | Euthyrox equivalent available; critical to get correct dose |
| Sertraline 50mg (antidepressant, 28 tablets) | €6–12 | €3–7 | Prescription required; affordable at private doctor + pharmacy |
| Omeprazole 20mg (reflux, 28 capsules) | €3–7 | €1.50–4 | Widely available; often OTC in Turkey |
| Ventolin inhaler (asthma) | €5–10 | €3–7 | Available at most pharmacies; prescription needed for SGK subsidy |
| Insulin (Novomix 30, per pen) | €15–25 | €10–18 | Significantly cheaper than in Europe; keep supply cool |
| Paracetamol 500mg (20 tablets) | €1–2 | €0.50–1 | Extremely cheap; no prescription needed |
SGK-enrolled patients pay 10–30% of these prices. Always ask for the generic (muadil ilaç) to save money.
How to Get a Prescription in Turkey
Private Clinic / Hospital
English OKCost: €35–70 consultation
Prescription type: Printed same day
Most common route for expats. Book online or walk in. Prescription typically handwritten or printed in Turkish with INN (international nonproprietary name) visible.
Public Hospital (SGK enrolled)
LimitedCost: €0–5 (SGK covers GP visit)
Prescription type: Electronic e-reçete system
Prescription goes directly into the national e-reçete system. Pharmacist scans your SGK card or T.C. number to access it. Significantly subsidized medication costs.
Aile Hekimi (Family Doctor, SGK)
Very limitedCost: €0 (SGK enrolled)
Prescription type: Electronic, instant
If you have registered an aile hekimi (family doctor), they can prescribe repeat medications easily. Requires being SGK-enrolled and having a Turkish ID/T.C. number.
Bringing Medication from Abroad — Customs Rules
3-month personal supply
You can bring a maximum 3-month supply of any medication for personal use. This applies to each type of medication.
Original packaging required
Keep medications in original boxes with visible labels. Loose tablets in unlabeled bags may be confiscated.
Doctor's letter strongly recommended
Carry a letter from your doctor stating the medication name (INN), dosage, and that it is for personal use. Translate to Turkish if possible.
Controlled substances — advance permit required
Opioid pain medications, benzodiazepines, ADHD medications (methylphenidate, amphetamines) require advance import authorization from the Turkish Ministry of Health.
No commercial quantities
Any quantity that appears commercial (hundreds of boxes, many types) will trigger customs scrutiny regardless of prescription status.
Insulin and refrigerated medications
Declare insulin at customs and request medical refrigeration during long travel. Use a medical cooling wallet for transit.
Controlled Substances in Turkey
- Controlled substances (uyuşturucu veya psikotrop maddeler) are strictly regulated in Turkey.
- Benzodiazepines (diazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam) require prescription and are controlled — you cannot obtain these OTC.
- ADHD medications (Ritalin/Concerta) are tightly controlled. Bring a 3-month supply from home with detailed documentation, or see a Turkish psychiatrist for a local prescription.
- Tramadol and opioid painkillers require special "kırmızı reçete" (red prescription) from a licensed physician.
- Cannabis-based medications are not legally available in Turkey.
- Melatonin, which is available OTC in many countries, requires a prescription in Turkey.
Useful Online Pharmacy Apps and Tools
Eczane.com
Find nearby pharmacies and duty pharmacies. Check stock of specific medications at local pharmacies.
ilaç Bul
Turkish Ministry of Health's official app and website for checking medication availability, prices, and pharmacy stock (ilacbul.com).
eczaneler.com
Find duty pharmacies, pharmacy hours, and contact details across all cities.
e-Devlet (e-Government)
Access your e-reçete (electronic prescriptions) via the government digital portal — useful for SGK patients to track prescriptions and medication history.