Purchase Of Antibiotics In Mexico Now Requires Prescription

For years, buying prescription drugs across our border has been simple. Next week that will all change as Mexico outlaws buying antibiotics without a prescription.

“I think it’s okay because it’s preventive,” explains El Pasoan, Raul Mata. People from both sides of the border are split about how Mexico’s health organizations plan to put a stop to self-medication. It’s going to be very hard says one woman who live in Juarez.

Juarez media reports explain Mexican lawmakers have decided to not allow the sale of antibiotics over the counter or without a prescription. It’s a decision that will have a big impact on communities like the Borderland.

Pharmacists in our sister city are pleased with the decision, but only from a health point of view, according to Juarez media reports. Economically, this decision could be difficult for people on both sides of the border.

Whatever citizenship, many prefer buying antibiotics across the border because in some cases they’re cheaper. Also, right now a person doesn’t need a doctor’s prescription.

In spanish, Maria Siloro says she doesn’t have the money to see a doctor. Another woman tells ABC-7 she doesn’t see the point of the prescription if you know what you need.

Others say it’s better to see a doctor first. Mata says he’s bought antibiotics a few times in Juarez.

For him a doctor’s visit is nothing compared to the consequences of buying the wrong medicine. “Because if you buy something that you think is good without seeing the doctor, how do you know it’s good?”

The plan is to begin enforcing the rule in April, but a date has not been finalized. The prescription has to come from a doctor in Mexico.