I've jus lost an asthma inhaler (seretide - reventative) and am running low on my ventolin inhaler. So, of course, I try to arrange a GP (or equivalent) appointment and so far the best I can get is may 27th!!! I'm suffering (as I always do around this time of year) and need something sooner. Is there anyway of going to a pharmacy with my UK prescription and getting something sooner?

Perhaps there is a walk in doctors' practice at the main train station (I see you are in Basel). You normally have to wait a good while, if the one in Zurich is anything to go by, as it is first come first served but you will be seen by a doctor who will probably renew your inhaler prescription.

It's worth a try to go with you uk precription and ask....they can only say no....

Did you explain to the doctor why you needed to come...if so try another one and say it is an emergency and if no luck go to a and e......

good luck and i hope you can get it sorted...

It depends on the pharmacy, but they should do it as long as you return with a prescription for the meds in a timely manner. It's happened to me a few times in Zurich and the chemist always helps me out - it's astha medication, they understand the urgency.

A chemist will give you ventolin without a prescription. I have done it on more than one occasion.

Just march in, explain that you're not from here, you're asthmatic and you've lost your pump. If necessary, wheeze and look flustered.

I second that, bought a Ventolin on Saturday (CHF12.00) from the pharmacy no questions asked, I'm sure If you use another type of inhaler they would sell it to you.
Nick

hi there,

Some phamacies will give it to you, if you just explain your situation and they usaully ask for the name and address of your family doctor back home.
Otherwise, I have also been to the emergency at the hospital and then they will give you a prescription and sometimes they will give you one right there on the spot.

good luck hope this helps
( i totally understand how you feel!!)