Getting Medical Supplies in Las Palmas

The pharmacies (farmacia) in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria have many years of experience supplying skippers with the medical equipment and medications they may want to have onboard for their Atlantic crossing.

The ARC rally handbook sets out the types of supplies that should be carried onboard all boats, both in terms of ‘First Aid’ equipment such as dressings, bandages, splints and suture kits as well as useful medication to have onboard.

It is generally best to speak with your local doctor and pharmacy before leaving home, but if that isn't possible, visit one of the many farmacias in Las Palmas. We invite a representative from Farmacia Valido San Roman to the ARC and ARC+ programme every year to help participants - check out the rally programme.

What paperwork do I need to obtain medication from the pharmacy?

Pharmacists can supply medication, which would normally only be available with a prescription, to boat skippers. Skippers will need to present their passport AND boat registration documentation to the pharmacist before any medication can be supplied.

What medications can pharmacists in Las Palmas supply?

Pharmacists can supply the full range of medications recommended by World Cruising Club, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, antispasmodics, and analgesics (except for morphine and morphine derivatives). They are also able to supply preloaded adrenaline syringes for anaphylactic shock.

It is worth noting that the instructions for all medicines supplied will be in Spanish, and the ‘brand’ names of the drugs may be different to those you have purchased in your home country. It is therefore important that you take the time to label your medical supplies appropriately, to ensure medications are correctly administered. The pharmacist can advise - take good notes!

Can the pharmacists dispose of the expired medications?

Yes – if you take your out-of-date medications with you when you go to purchase new supplies, the pharmacists will dispose of your expired medications securely.

What should I do if a member of the crew has an allergy to one of the recommended medications?

All skippers must be aware of any allergies crew may have to both prescription and non-prescription medications. If you have a crew member who is allergic to a specific medicine, like penicillin, the pharmacist will be able to advise you of suitable alternatives.