Apteka

Apteka is the term used in several languages, including Polish, Russian, Ukrainian, Serbian, Croatian, and Bulgarian, for a pharmacy or drugstore. The word derives from the Greek apotheke via Latin apotheca, originally referring to a storage place for medicines. In everyday use, apteka denotes a shop where medicines and related health products are sold and dispensed.

Inside an apteka, trained pharmacists or chemists dispense prescription medications, provide guidance on over-the-counter remedies, and offer information on drug safety, interactions, and appropriate use. Many aptekas also supply medical devices, vitamins, and personal care products. In some jurisdictions, pharmacists may provide vaccinations, immunization advice, and basic health screenings.

Regulatory framework: Aptekas operate under national or regional health regulations and require licensed pharmacists and proper storefront authorization. Standards cover pharmacist qualifications, storage conditions, record-keeping, prescription verification, and sale restrictions for certain controlled medicines.

Online and mail-order aptekas exist in many countries, offering home delivery of medicines with varying regulatory controls. Consumers should verify accreditation, ensure prescription requirements are met, and be aware of counterfeit risks.