In case of cystitis or bacterial tonsillitis, it is now possible to obtain antibiotics without a prescription in pharmacies.
- In the coming weeks, pharmacists will be able to dispense antibiotics for bacterial tonsillitis and cystitis without the need for a medical prescription.
- The pharmacist should perform a rapid diagnostic test before giving medication in the event of bacterial angina or cystitis.
- This system should begin within 15 days, the time it takes for the first pharmacists to complete the online training necessary to dispense medications without a prescription.
After two training courses, pharmacists will now be able to dispense antibiotics in the event of a positive test for bacterial angina or cystitis, according to the publication of a decree in Official newspaperthis June 18. This measure comes within the framework of the law on the financing of Social Security 2024, adopted at the end of 2023 by Parliament.
What are the conditions for obtaining an antibiotic from a pharmacy?
However, several conditions must be met to obtain this type of antibiotic without a prescription. In particular, patients must be over ten years old to benefit from an antibiotic against bacterial angina, and delivery in the event of cystitis will be possible for women aged 16 to 65, who do not have a fever.
Before dispensing a medication, the pharmacist must perform a rapid diagnostic test. If the test is positive, this professional will dispense an antibiotic with the appropriate dosage. He will be paid 10 euros in the event of a negative test, and 15 euros if the test is positive.
Two training courses required to dispense antibiotics without a prescription
In an interview with Agence France-Presse (AFP), Philippe Besset, president of the Federation of Pharmacists of France, indicated that the first direct deliveries in pharmacies could begin “within two weeks”. “Pharmacists will have to do two online training courses. They will have to register with the regional health agency to be authorized to provide these condition management services”he described to France Info.
This device aims to relieve the workload of general practitioners, especially in this particular context of medical desertification. Nevertheless, many of them opposed this measure for fear of diagnostic errors.We will have to send our document to the treating physicians via secure health messaging so that they are informed of the care of their patient”however reassured Philippe Besset.
