Ljekarne

Ljekarne are retail establishments that specialize in medicines, health products, and professional advice. They are typically staffed by licensed pharmacists who prepare, dispense, and supervise the use of medicines, and by assistants or technicians who handle distribution and customer service. Ljekarne may be standalone businesses or part of larger chains; hospital pharmacies exist as well but operate separately from community ljekarne.

They dispense prescription medicines after verifying the prescription and patient information, and they counsel patients on correct dosing, timing, storage, potential drug interactions, and adverse effects. They also supply over-the-counter medicines, medical devices, and health-related products such as vitamins and personal care items. In many places, pharmacists can offer basic health services, including vaccination referrals, medical advice, and screening tests.

Regulation and safety are central to the operation of ljekarne. They operate under national health legislation and pharmaceutical standards, require licenses to dispense medicines, and are subject to ongoing professional oversight. Confidentiality and patient privacy are maintained in accordance with law, and there are additional restrictions for controlled substances.

History and scope have evolved with professionalization of the field. The term ljekarna derives from historical pharmacy practice, with modern ljekarne emphasizing standardized pharmaceutical care, quality control, and adherence support. They play a key role in public health by improving access to medicines, providing medication information, and serving as a readily available source of health guidance for the community.