Pharmacies in Cuba: Medication and Health Kit Planning

Travellers should not assume that a Cuban pharmacy will have the medication, brand or dosage they normally use. Availability can vary, so preparation before departure is essential.

Bring enough medication

Pack a sufficient supply for the full trip plus a reasonable delay buffer. Keep prescription medication in its original labelled container and carry a copy of the prescription or a medical note when appropriate.

Build a basic travel health kit

• Pain and fever medication
• Oral rehydration salts
• Stomach and diarrhea treatment recommended for you
• Bandages, antiseptic and blister care
• Insect repellent and after-bite treatment
• Any allergy medication you normally use

Keep essentials in carry-on luggage

Do not place critical medication only in checked baggage. Delayed or missing luggage can quickly become a health problem.

Know when to seek medical help

Contact your insurer or hotel reception when symptoms are serious, persistent or unusual. Keep your insurance policy number and emergency telephone numbers available offline.

See the Cuba healthcare and insurance guide, the food and water safety guide and the mosquito protection guide.